Liverpool left-back Emiliano Insua says that despite poor results this season, he had been delighted with the amount of first team action he has been involved in.

A succession of injuries to Fabio Aurelio has seen Insua make 16 appearances for the Reds this season, becoming a regular fixture in the Liverpool defence.

He says, “It’s been a very good season for me, I’ve played 16 games already, but I want to play more.

“I always want more, but the only thing I can do is keep working hard and look to the future.”

“For every player, to play for your country is really special and I want to play in South Africa next year, but Liverpool comes first and if I play well for my club, then I hope that more games for Argentina will follow.”

He also revealed how he still hopes to impress Argentina national boss Diego Maradona to give him a place in the squad for World Cup 2010, despite being dropped for the forthcoming internationals.

Insua made his debut for his country last month when Argentina played Peru, but has not been called up for their friendly against Spain this weekend.

He added, “It was very special to play because it was a crucial time for my country.

“I will never forget that I helped them to qualify for the World Cup, but I know I have to keep working hard for Liverpool first, then my country.”