Liverpool midfielder Alberto Aquilani remains hopeful of making Italy's World Cup squad.

Aquilani started Liverpool's last league game - a goalless draw with Fulham - and is desperate for another chance to impress Italy boss Marcello Lippi.

The £20million midfielder has endured an injury-ravaged debut season on Merseyside but insists he could still make an impact at the World Cup.

He said: "It is every footballer's dream to play at the World Cup.

"But only if I can do well for Liverpool can I think about regaining the maglia azzurra and maybe go to South Africa.

"If I perform well in the Premier League, perhaps the strongest league in the world, then the manager must take notice."