Alberto Aquilani has claimed that he has been forced out of Liverpool by previous managers and is determined to fight for his place this season.

The 28-year-old has been on loan to Juventus and AC Milan since joining Liverpool in 2009, and believes that he has never been given a fair run at Anfield.

Aquilani told BBC Sport: "How can you pay £20m for a player and this player is never taken into consideration?"

"I never asked to leave but I was always pushed by the club. I am here and I would like to play for Liverpool but it doesn't depend only on me."

The Italian is currently on tour with the Reds in North America and is hoping to get the chance to show what he can do in the Premier League this season.

"The situation changed after Benitez left," Aquliani continued. "I cannot say I have unfinished business in English football because I really never played but, the little I did, I believe I was able to show to Liverpool fans that I have quality and that I could have helped the team."

Aquilani played 45 minutes on Wednesday as Liverpool lost 2-1 to his former club Roma in a pre-season friendly.