STEVEN GERRARD has revealed his delight at seeing Kenny Dalglish named permanent Liverpool manager.

Dalglish signed a three-year contract at Anfield on Thursday, having been installed on a temporary basis back in January.

And Gerrard says the news has been received well by all at the club.

"It is fantastic news and the news everyone connected with the club has been waiting for," said the Reds skipper.

"Kenny has lifted the place, the supporters, the players and everyone connected with the club and now we can all look forward to a bright future.

"I think the timing of it is perfect before the last home game and I'm really looking forward to Sunday (when Liverpool face Tottenham at Anfield) now to see the reaction."

Gerrard has been missing from first-team action since early March with a groin problem, but says the atmosphere around the club is much more positive since Dalglish's arrival, and says he hopes the Reds can build on the positivity of the past four months.

"Before he came in everyone knew it was a difficult time as results were not going well," he added. "But sometimes all you need is a change. The last six months has been a lot more positive.

"He is very popular with the players and I think he is a popular guy in general. Everyone knows about his knowledge, his experience and what he has done in the game.

"With Kenny signing and a few more signings, I am sure expectations will go through the roof but we just need to continue what we have been doing over the last six months."