Aquilani may replace Gerrard in advanced role
By Soccernet staff
April 27, 2010
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is considering utilising much-maligned Italian Alberto Aquilani as an attacking midfielder on a regular basis after his fine display at Burnley.
Aquilani, who has still to regain full match fitness after joining Liverpool while injured in a £20 million deal from AS Roma last summer, has started only seven Premier League games this term and made just 22 appearances in all competitions.
But the Italy international finally seemed to find his feet at Turf Moor on Sunday, grabbing three assists in Liverpool's 4-0 win which consigned the Clarets to life in the Championship next season.
Benitez is now considering handing the role behind to striker to Aquilani, which means captain Steven Gerrard would drop into a deeper midfield role. Aquilani has previously played in a more central position.
Benitez said: "It is an option. He can play in both positions. In the first year, especially because he has been injured for a long time, to manage him and find the right position for him was not easy because the Premier League is very strong and physical.
"But in this position he has freedom and with Gerrard behind him they can pass to each other. Aquilani can pass the ball and when the game is open like in the second half (against Burney) he can move and give good assists.''
Aquilani seems certain to be benched again for Thursday's crucial Europa League semi-final, second leg at home to Atletico Madrid at Anfield. Liverpool are trailing to Diego Forlan's goal last Thursday.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=777799&sec=england&cc=5739
Well done Sherlock.