Fabio Aurelio is edging closer to a Liverpool return.

The Brazilian left-back is recovering from a thigh injury and needs to prove his fitness for any chance of a new contract offer.

Reds No2 Sammy Lee told liverpoolfc.tv: "At this moment in time Fabio is working hard in rehab.

"We are not putting any pressure on him and he will be looking to get back as soon as he can. He has started doing work outside again and hopefully fingers crossed you will see him in the not too distant future."