Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has revealed Fabio Aurelio is closing in on a return to action.

Aurelio has been sidelined since last April after rupturing his Achilles tendon in the Champions League quarter-final with PSV Eindhoven.

The Brazilian has been pencilled in to play in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Crewe on Tuesday as he works on his fitness.

Benitez admitted it would be a major boost to have the former Valencia star back.

"We hope Fabio will be able to play in this game," said Benitez. "He's been training well and now we think he is ready. It's positive news to have him back."