Liverpool striker Fabio Borini has revealed that he joined up with the Reds earlier than expected in order to 'integrate' into the team.

The 21-year-old, who joined from Roma this summer, was given extra time off due to his involvement with Italy at Euro 2012.

However, he told the club's official website: "I chose to come early because I think it's important to be with the team, especially because I'm a new player.

"I could have had a month [off] but I didn't play at the Euros. I chose to come early to get used to the team and adapt more quickly. I am desperate to get started. It was good, nice to be back and playing some football with the boys, with the English boys who were at the Euros.

"To play as a Liverpool player and see the fans outside was very nice. The England boys were really nice with me. The first person I saw was Glen Johnson. I spoke with him a little bit, and with Steven Gerrard as well. They were really friendly with me."

Borini has also represented Chelsea and Swansea City.