Last Updated: Fri, 05 Feb 2010 11:17
Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard has backed Alberto Aquilani to handle the pressure of a Merseyside derby should he play on Saturday.
Aquilani appears to be finally warming to life in the Premier League following a slow start to his Liverpool career.
The Italian midfielder has started the last four of the Reds' home games and is in contention to remain in Rafa Benitez's XI for the visit of local rivals Everton this weekend.
And Gerrard insists the £18million summer signing will be able to shine in the game, if selected.
"Whether he starts or plays as a sub, Alberto knows what derbies are all about," said the skipper. "I'm sure he will handle the occasion no problem.
"He will also get help from myself and Jamie (Carragher) to let him know what this game is about in the dressing room. Merseyside derbies are very quick and frantic in the first 15-20 minutes and the tempo and intensity is very high.
"It will be a great game for him to notch his first goal, too. He is improving the more he is playing and training."
Gerrard added: "There were always going to be high expectations because of his big price tag. It takes time to get used to the speed and pace of the English game when you come from abroad, but he certainly has the talent."