ANELKA GLAD TO BE BACK

The French ace, who arrived at Anfield last week until at least the end of the season, was a 68th minute substitute in The Reds' 2-1 Boxing Day victory at Aston Villa.

He was also delighted with the reception he was given by his new supporters, and he says he will be hitting peak form shortly.

"I was extremely pleased to make my debut with my new team," said Anelka on his personal website.

"Because I have not played much lately, I am still a little bit short of fitness, but my best form should not be too long in coming back.

"I received a superb greeting from the Liverpool fans. I was a little apprehensive of what the Liverpool fans' reaction would be when I came on as a substitute.

"This is because I wear the number nine shirt, which used to be Robbie Fowler's, so I wondered how they would welcome me, but I was happy that they chanted my name."

Anelka is already looking forward to his Anfield debut against Bolton on New Year's Day, but the fixture he is eagerly anticipating is a trip to Highbury in just over a fortnight's time.

"I have already noted a date in my diary - January 13, when we meet Arsenal."

Meanwhile, Liverpool's inspirational captain Sami Hyypia has been crowned Finland's Sports Person of the Year.

Hyypia was the unanimous winner of the award, and he is only the second player of a team sport to walk off with the title - ironically, his Reds team-mate Jari Litmanen was the first.