Aquilani pleased with Wolves start

Alberto Aquilani today spoke of his delight at making his first league start for Liverpool in Saturday's victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers - but insisted collecting a much-needed win was what mattered most.

The Italy midfielder played for 85 minutes on Boxing Day at Anfield before exiting the field to a standing ovation as he made way for Dani Pacheco.

However, while pleased to have a league start under his belt, Aquilani admits the most important aspect of the afternoon was ensuring the Reds picked up the three points and boosted their quest for a top four finish.

"I really enjoyed the game as it was important for me; I want to improve my fitness," he said.

"It was so different to anything I have experienced, as it was so quick and you never really had much time. The football we played was so fast. 

"The most important thing, however, was that we won. We need to improve our confidence and we need to keep winning games to move up the table. 

"It is crucial to take things step by step but our aim is now to win three, four and five games in a row. If we can do that, we will see where that takes us.

"Now we have to face Aston Villa and it is a very important game for our season but we are feeling good and it is important that we try to win."