Aurelio boost for Reds

Fabio Aurelio is set to return for pre-season following surgery on his Achilles tendon.

Fabio Aurelio is set to return for pre-season following a successful operation on his Achilles tendon.

The full-back was stretchered off during the 3-0 victory over PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday night.

The initial prognosis suggested the Brazilian could be sidelined for three to four months - ruling him out of the start of next season.

However, boss Rafa Benitez says the surgery to repair the damage went well and the former Valencia man will be back in time for the new campaign.

"He will be fit for the pre-season," Benitez told the club's official website.

"Yesterday he had an operation and it was really good. It was over quickly - the doctor carried out a new kind of operation."

Benitez has been delighted with Aurelio after some impressive displays in recent weeks

"He was playing really well, so it was a pity to see him get injured again," added the Liverpool boss.