King reveals Aquilani hope

Kop legend Kenny Dalglish has revealed his excitement at Alberto Aquilani's return to fitness and backed the midfielder to be a 'great acquisition' for Liverpool.

After missing the start of the season due to an ankle injury, the Italy international has recently made two cameo appearances for the Reds - and was given his first run-out at Anfield in the 2-2 draw with Birmingham City on Monday night.

Dalglish admits he is encouraged by what he has seen so far, though the Scot is fully behind the decision of boss Rafael Benitez to err on the side of caution with the fitness of Aquilani.

"To me he looks a very good footballer who has good vision and is capable of seeing a pass. Because of our current injury situation it would have been easy to rush him back into action. But that wouldn't have been fair to the player and he could have ended up missing even more time. Instead he's had the rehabilitation he's needed and he should be a great acquisition."