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Alberto Aquilani could make his home debut tomorrow.

The Italian midfielder won’t start against Birmingham, but is likely to be on the bench and could make his Anfield debut as a subsitute.

“His [Aquilani's] match fitness is still a problem,” said Rafael Benitez.

“We are hopeful of having some players fit and available so maybe he can wait and change the game if it’s necessary.

“We were controlling the game in Lyon and Lucas and Javier Mascherano were doing a very good job. When we scored we didn’t want to change the shape. Aquilani was better after his virus and could have played some part but hopefully now he will be better for Monday.”

Source: LFC Online

Source: Liverpool Echo

ALBERTO AQUILANI has taken a huge step towards making his Liverpool debut now he has started kicking a ball again for the first time in six months.

Rafa Benitez reported last week that his £20m midfielder was making good progress but erred on the side of caution as to when Aquilani might be seen in a Red shirt.

However, the Italian was given the green light to start doing some ball work again late last week and has continued to work on passing and shooting in the last couple of days.

There is a growing sense of anticipation amongst supporters about Aquilani, who was drafted in to fill the void left by Xabi Alonso’s move to Real Madrid.

But there is no chance of him launching his career in the cut and thrust of a potentially pivotal clash against Manchester United on Sunday week.

Benitez will be looking to ease Aquilani in gradually as the 25-year-old has not played a competitive game since Arsenal beat his old club Roma in the Champions League in March.

The reserves have a game against Sunderland at home next Wednesday but it could be that Benitez waits a further seven days before pushing him into the frame.

That would open up the prospect of Aquilani getting his first taste of English football in the Carling Cup fourth round clash at Arsenal on October 28.

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Fernando Torres

Spain have decided to risk Fernando Torres, by keeping them in their squad. Fernando Torres is suffering from groin injury, and this is how Liverpool’s title chances went down last season. Torres is Liverpool’s key striker and has been since he joined the Reds in 2007, and he is already proving to be a legendary striker for Liverpool at Anfield.

Steven Gerrard also picked up a knock in England’s qualifier against Ukraine, which meant he was took off at half time. Let’s hope it’s nothing big. He has pulled out of training earlier today, though.

And finally Dirk Kuyt. He picked up an ankle injury against Chelsea, and also missed Holland’s training session. But for some reason Dirk played for Holland against Australia in their friendly.

Ryan Babel admitted he had a headache after all the flying with Holland.

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