Mark Gonzalez boosted his hopes of joining Liverpool in the summer by playing a starring role in Chile's 1-0 friendly victory over the Republic of Ireland in Dublin last night.

Liverpool supporters will have been impressed by the 22-year-old winger's performance at Lansdowne Road. He had a hand in the winning goal, with his free-kick causing panic in the Irish defence before Manuel Iturra stabbed in the loose ball three minutes into the second half.

Gonzalez was always a threat and forced two good saves out of Newcastle United goalkeeper Shay Given, while he also saw another volley cannon off the post.

The Chilean, together with Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, must hope his display will aid his cause of finally being able to play in the Premiership.

Liverpool will formally make a second application next week for Gonzalez to be granted a work permit.