Aquilani wants to give it all for the title

New signing Alberto Aquilani is confident he can play a key role in Liverpool's efforts to win their first league title since 1990.

The Italian signed a five-year contract with the club earlier this month as a replacement for the departing Xabi Alonso.

Despite an ankle problem likely to keep him on the sidelines until the autumn, Aquilani is sure he can add something different to Liverpool's play and help deliver a coveted championship trophy.

"I have signed for five years, I want to be here as long as possible, though I would prefer to be out of action for a brief period now rather than being out of action for a longer time later on," said Aquilani. "This is a long championship, there are lots of games.

"All I can say is I will give it my best, I will give it my all, and I hope to start as soon as possible."

Aquilani is relishing the prospect of lining up in a Liverpool side for the first time - but he is keen not to rush his rehabilitation.

The 25-year-old is currently working with the club's doctors to ensure his time on the sidelines is not lengthy.

Though not able to play, Rafa Benitez's linguistic talents are ensuring he feels part of things.

"Yes, obviously it is important for me that he speaks Italian, but he has told me that he wants me to speak English," said Aquilani. "He thinks it's important that I learn to speak English, with him, with the players, and with everyone else at the club.

"But obviously it will be an advantage right now because if there is anything I don't understand he can help me."

Aquilani added: "I saw immediately the importance of what a technician he is and how ambitious the club is, and I am very proud to have been chosen to be a part of it.

"Rafa is obviously looking for a player with my qualities, and he hopes I will shine on the pitch. I had a very good impression of him when I first met him, but I had already seen how successful he is from watching in Italy. I saw how well prepared he is every time, and I know that I can improve and learn a lot from him."

Aquilani is also pleased the Reds have another Italian in their ranks - Andrea Dossena.

"It is definitely a good thing that Dossena is here," he said. "We have played together in the national team, and he will be useful, especially at first if there is anything I don't understand, but my plan is to learn English as soon as possible."