Source: PA
Poulsen hoping for early debut
New Liverpool midfielder Christian Poulsen is hoping to persuade manager Roy Hodgson he is ready to take on Arsenal in their Barclays Premier League opener on Sunday.
The 30-year-old Denmark international signed a three-year contract after a £4.5million fee, with an additional £1million payable on certain conditions, was agreed with Juventus.
He trained with his new team-mates on Thursday but has little time to settle in before the campaign kicks-off at Anfield and throwing him in against Arsene Wenger's side may be too much of a gamble.
However, Hodgson is well aware of Poulsen's qualities, having signed him for FC Copenhagen 10 years ago, and the player insists he is ready if called upon.
"I started a little bit later because of the World Cup but I've done pre-season with Juventus," he said.
"I didn't play the last matches in the Europa League because of the move to this club. I am feeling fit but of course it's a decision for the manager and the staff."
