Anelka wins plaudits for start
Thompson is delighted with Anelka's attitude since arriving from Paris Saint Germain on loan for the rest of the season, and hopes that his first goal for the club - against Birmingham City in the FA Cup - will be the first of many.
"I really like this boy," said Thompson. "He is quick and can score goals.
"Since arriving I have been very pleased with his behaviour and his happiness during matches and training sessions.
"I am very happy to see him smiling. He has a great desire and will to learn - wants to do his best, and is improving.
"On the pitch he has shown his fitness and although he missed some chances against West Ham the trust is coming back.
"Fairly soon he will not miss those chances, believe me.
"We mustn't be too demanding straight away. It is a fresh start in his career, so wait and see."
McManaman has experience of both Liverpool and Anelka - having played alongside him for Real Madrid, and he believes that he made the right decision in moving to Anfield.
"I am sure he will do well," he said. "In Madrid, he didn't speak Spanish and all of his problems started with that, because he couldn't communicate with his team-mates.
"People think Nicolas is an arrogant and lonely man, but that is simply not true.
"People just don't understand him. He is shy and young. He can bring a lot to Liverpool. I wish him the best."
