Rafa backs AA to stay on Merseyside

Liverpool’s record signing Alberto Aquilani's future at the club is safe despite a forgettable start to his time on Merseyside. Signed for £20million, the same as they paid for Fernando Torres, the Italian international was supposed to replace the departed Xabi Alonso. But following a mere seven starts for the club in eight months, questions are being raised about his Anfield future. Reds boss Rafa Benitez will have none of it. "We have had a conversation about things and he knows the situation. Alberto is a very good professional, who was a big name in Italy and wants to show his quality here," Benitez explained, before adding, “When you've been injured and cannot play for three or four months, and then you're available but can't play because the team is having problems, it's a difficult situation for any professional."