Aquilani is planning to be an Anfield ace

LIVERPOOL midfielder Alberto Aquilani has plans to become a Premier League ace after easing himself into English football by playing cards with his new team-mates.

After recovering from his long-term knee injury, Italy international Aquilani made an impressive Liverpool debut this week in the Carling Cup defeat at Arsenal following a trip south that included his introduction to the tradition of the card school.

“He’s tried to be involved, not only in the training sessions but off the pitch too,” said forward Dirk Kuyt.

“He played cards with us before the Arsenal match and tried to pick up the language. He’s learning very quickly for an Italian!”

Aquilani, the 25-year-old Italy international, showed glimpses of his potential during a 14-minute cameo and had a shout for a penalty turned down when his scissor-kick was blocked by Philippe Senderos’ arm.

Kuyt, who was stand-in skipper for the evening, believes Aquilani will establish his own style at Anfield, rather than attempt to follow in the footsteps of Xabi Alonso following the Spain midfielder’s departure in the summer to Real Madrid.

“Every player who comes to Liverpool is his own personality,” Kuyt added.

“He has to do it by himself with the rest of us giving him all the support. We will help him on his way.

“We’ve known Alberto already for a while. This was his first game and I’m very happy for him that he made his debut for Liverpool and hopefully there is a lot more to see from him.

“He is a nice lad, on and off the pitch, and told us he couldn’t wait to start. I’m glad for him and us that he can finally play.

“He’s desperate to play and wants to show England how good he is.”