Bentitez Refuses To Back Down Over Aquilani
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has refused to be bullied over the selection of Italian midfielder Alberto Aquilani and has stated that he will only select the play maker when the time is right.
Certain sections of the fans and media have been calling for Aquilani to be included more in first team action as Liverpool have seemingly been in search of some of the Italian’s trademark creativity at times this season.
Despite this, Aquilani has played fewer than 10 games this season since his £20 million move from Roma in the summer.
Benitez though, is unapologetic and has stressed that there are reasons for Aquilani’s lack of involvement.
"When you have been injured for a while, it's not easy for a player," said Benitez.
"Then when you are available and the team isn't doing well, it makes it even more difficult.
"You have to decide if you can afford to give him two or three games when you know he's maybe not at the level he could be, so you could end up losing some of them.
"Alberto isn't stupid. He knows the priority now has to be the team and what's best for that. All he can do is keep training and making sure he is ready when we need him."
Aquilani was heralded upon arrival as the replacement for Xabi Alonso, who headed to Real Madrid in the summer in a big money deal.
The fact that this scenario is yet to materialise is of little bother to Benitez, however, and he is adamant that fans will see the best of Aquilani if they- and the midfielder- are patient.
Benitez added: “…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 he wants to show his quality here.”
Liverpool’s season is entering a vital stage as they chase both Europa League glory as well as the all important fourth place in the Premier League.
Liverpool are 11/4 with Coral to take 4th place and qualify for next seasons Champions League whilst also standing at 5/1 favourites to win the Europa League and rescue something from what has been a trying season.
All odds correct at time of writing and are subject to change
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