[quote author=Ryan link=topic=38848.msg1051530#msg1051530 date=1265667861]
Given Maxi's lack of gametime prior to us, and the difficult fixtures he's been thrown into since joining us four weeks ago, I think he's done well.
He works hard, retains possession all the time, can play in a variety of positions, and has settled in nicely.
Of course, we could have expected him to join us and set the world alight within 4 weeks. But then not all of us are utterly fucking clueless.
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Prior to joining us, Maxi had accumulated 24 appearances this season for Atletico. He's hardly been starved of football recently, but I agree with your general point; he need much more time. I don't think he should have started for the derby, though, if Riera was actually fit.
With regards to Aquilani, I'm still confident he'll come good. I was slightly hopeful that he would do an Alonso or a Torres and slot right in, but that hasn't materialised. He's clearly talented, but - like Robbie Keane - doubts remain about where he fits into this Liverpool side, his defensive attributes and his lacklustre levels of concentration at times. He has, however, picked up 2 assists already so it's not all doom and gloom.
Wait and see has to be the general message. I certainly will not rush to judgement on either player just to be the first 'I told you so' in 5 months time.