The Northern Irishman admits he listens to audio tapes of the legendary former Reds boss in order to try and improve himself as a manager and make his own mark at Anfield

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers listens to audio tapes of legendary Anfield figure Bill Shankly for inspiration.

The Scot’s tenure at the club was trophy laden, as he collected three top-flight titles, two FA Cups and a Uefa Cup during a 15-year spell on Merseyside in the 1960s and 70s.

Liverpool will face Preston North End, for whom Shankly starred as a player, in a pre-season friendly on Saturday as the 100th anniversary of his birth nears.

And Rodgers lauded his achievements, revealing he has researched Shankly’s career.

“I’ve listened to his tapes and all of the audio; he was an inspirational man who really set the ball rolling here at Liverpool,” the Northern Irishman told the club’s official website.

“Before I came into Liverpool, I was well aware of his achievements and the historic nature he has within the game of football.

“But you really understand the impact that he made at the club when you come in and speak to the many thousands of supporters, and you speak to people like the groundsman who was here when he was here.

“He’s an iconic figure for the football club and really set the club on its way to being one of the biggest clubs in the world.”

Rodgers is about to enter his second season in charge of Liverpool, and is keen to build on the foundations he laid during his debut campaign.

“I’m still the same man but with greater experience behind me,” the 40-year-old continued. “Until you come to a club like Liverpool and you have that first season here you don’t really understand totally what it’s like to be the manager of such an iconic club.

“But I feel comfortable now; I’m very fortunate, I’ve got brilliant staff around me. They give me great support in my role.

“The board have been absolutely brilliant for me in my time here. We’re all working unified and committed to keeping the club moving forward.

“I’m in a good place. I’m really excited and looking forward to this season. We’ve still got a lot of work to do.”