Paul Eaton 07 April 2005

Fernando Morientes has described Xabi Alonso's return to fitness as "the best possible news" for Liverpool fans.

Alonso successfully came through a 45 minute run-out for the reserves last night after recovering from a broken ankle and could be in line for a place in the squad at Manchester City this weekend.

Morientes insists the Spanish midfielders's return couldn't be better timed as the Reds look to leapfrog Everton into fourth and continue their adventure in the Champions League.

He told Liverpoolfc.tv: "Xabi is a great player, one of the best midfielders in the game and so to have him back to fitness is the best possible news any Liverpool fan could hope for.

"We have so many big games left to play this season and we're going to need our top players. He has recovered well from his injury and I know all the lads are glad to have him back again."

Morientes admits confidence in the camp is high following the victory over Juventus but he insists that result must be put to one side for now as the Reds look forward to Saturday's Premiership clash at Manchester City.

"Everyone is on a high at the moment because of the Juventus result but we know the job isn't finished yet," he said. "We are going to have to play very well defensively over there to get through the tie, but I believe we can do it. But before that we need to win at the weekend.

"The whole occasion against Juventus was magnificent. I can't even find the words to talk about the supporters on the night. They were incredible. All I can say is that fans from other clubs should look at the Liverpool supporters and learn from them. They are amazing.

"I know all the players want to reward the fans for their backing this season. It was always going to be a transitional season with it being the manager's first year here, but I think we're now seeing signs of what the future holds."

Morientes admits he's gutted at not being able to play a part in Liverpool's Champions League campaign this season, but he's now fully fit after injury and preparing to lead the line at Manchester City on Saturday.

He said: "I've been training properly this week and feel good now. Of course I'm disappointed I can't play in the Champions League, but I knew the situation before I came to the club. It does bug me, but there's nothing I can do.

"It just means I want to do even better in the Premier League games. I'm happy with the way I've started at Liverpool and I want to make sure I end the season having scored some more goals for the club."

Link: http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/drilldown/N148411050407-1353.htm