Liverpool full-back Fabio Aurelio is looking forward to the chance to start against Steaua Bucharest.
Full-back urges youngsters to grasp chance against Steaua
Liverpool full-back Fabio Aurelio is looking forward to the opportunity to start his first game in over three months against Steaua Bucharest.
Since being re-signed by the Reds in the summer, Aurelio has only made five appearances and has not started since the Europa League tie against Trabzonspor in August.
He has appeared as a substitute in Liverpool's past two Premier League games and will replace Paul Konchesky in the starting line-up for Thursday's Europa League tie away to Steaua.
Aurelio feels he has overcome the Achilles problem that has been hampering him and also believes the Steaua game is a good opportunity for Liverpool's younger players.
Improving
"My fitness has been improving," said the 31-year-old.
"I had a small problem at the beginning of the season with my Achilles but I've come on as a substitute in the last few games and I am feeling confident.
"When you are not playing regularly what you want is to get the match fitness so it will be a great opportunity to see what physical condition I am in but I think I will be ready.
"It is a great opportunity for all of us who have not played regularly in the last few games, especially for the young boys who may have their first experience of playing for Liverpool.
"But on the other hand they are not used to it so it could be a great start to get this experience.
"They know they won't have many opportunities like this so this is a game for them to show the manager he can count on them.
"They want to show great ability and do what the boss has been asking of them in the past and trying to teach us."
A win would put Liverpool through as Group K winners with a game to spare, while a draw would be enough to ensure qualification.
Aurelio added: "It would be very good if we qualified but it won't be easy because they play good football and they are playing at home."
