Source: SKY_Sports
Aquilani delight at Reds bow
Liverpool's £20million summer signing Alberto Aquilani was delighted to finally take to the field for his new club on Wednesday night.
Aquilani arrived at Anfield from Roma in the summer still some way from full fitness after undergoing ankle surgery in the summer.
The Italy international made his bow for the Reds in their reserve team outing against Sunderland at Tranmere's Prenton Park as he came on for the final 15 minutes of the 2-0 victory.
Aquilani told Sky Sports News: "It was a good day for me because I have not played for six or seven months.
"I have to do more good work with the medical staff.
"I am happy with 15 minutes and it is important for my confidence."
Rafa Benitez's side are in urgent need of added creativity and are in danger of seeing their Premier League and UEFA Champions League hopes dashed before the turn of the year.
Four successive defeats - two in the Premier League and two in Europe - has left the Reds floundering with many critics questioning the summer sale of Xabi Alonso.
Aquilani was bought in a bid to fill the void created by the Spain international's departure, and is eager to make his long-awaited first-team bow, although that could still be some time away.
He added on the club's official website: "Of course, I cannot wait to make my debut for the first-team now.
"Like every other player, I want to be playing, but the important thing for me now is to keep improving my fitness.
"I don't want to stop now - I want to carry on working hard and improving for a long time.
"I have signed for Liverpool for five years and I want to play here for at least five years."
