Liverpool stand-in skipper Dirk Kuyt was pleased that Alberto Aquilani made his debut in last night's Cup defeat to Arsenal.

Kuyt is loathe to put any pressure on Aquilani’s shoulders but he is optimistic that the Italian midfielder – who played one glorious pass to Philipp Degen – will prove to be a hit.

“We have known Albert for a while and I’m very happy for him that he has made his debut,” Kuyt told the Liverpool Echo.

“Hopefully we will see a lot more from him now. He’s a nice lad on and off the pitch and it’s good for him and us that he has finally played.”