Aurelio eyes Leeds start

Fabio Aurelio has set his sights on his first start of the 2009-10 season in tonight's Carling Cup clash at Leeds United.

The Brazilian full-back, who returned to action with brief substitute appearances against Debrecen and West Ham, is delighted to be back in contention following his injury lay-off and is now hoping for a run out in the third round encounter at Elland road.
 
"I'm really happy to be back playing and to be part of the squad for matches again is great," he said.
 
"I hope to start at Leeds and I'm sure there will be opportunities in this game for players who haven't been used in Premier League games much recently.
 
"Every opportunity you get you need to show something to the boss and I have to take this chance. Hopefully I can do my job and help us get through.
 
"We want to progress in every competition we're involved in. The Carling Cup offers a possibility for us to win a trophy and we can't allow that chance to pass easily.
 
"It might not be the most prestigious competition but it's still very important to us and we want to go all the way."
 
Aurelio missed the whole of Liverpool's pre-season and the first five matches in the Barclays Premier League after picking up a knee injury while on holiday with his family in Brazil.
 
He admits it has been a frustrating period on the sidelines but is now eager to catch up for lost time.
 
"It has been a tough few months for me but at least I haven't missed many games," he said.
 
"I've been training hard at Melwood and to finally get back out there on the pitch was a moment of happiness for me.
 
"My knee is fine now and I just need to build up my match fitness.
"I'm not yet back to the level I was at last season but the game against Leeds is a chance to get some more minutes under my belt."
 
Aurelio's absence has given fellow South American full-back Emiliano Insua the chance to shine on the left side of the defence.
 
The Brazilian has been impressed by the youngster's impact so far and admits he faces a stiff battle to reclaim his place in Rafael Benitez's starting XI.
 
"Emiliano has been doing really well," he said.
 
"Everyone knows his ability and since the start of the season he has done a very good job for the team.
 
"It will be a hard fight for that place this season but the fact we have more options now helps the team to be stronger.
 
"If we all keep working hard then it will be a difficult decision for the manager."
 
The trip to Elland road has been billed as the tie of the round. Aurelio accepts Leeds may no longer be the force they once were but is still expecting a tough battle.
 
"They might be two divisions below us but we know all about their history," Aurelio said.
 
"We know they are doing really well this season and are very strong at home.
 
"Their confidence will be high and we have to be prepared for a very hard game."