Babbel delight at comeback

The former German international has been out of action since August 2001 and was forced to spend some time in a wheelchair as a result of the dangerous neurological disorder, but he made a short comeback on Tuesday in Thomas Helmer's testimonial match in Bielefeld.

Babbel was delighted with way his 17-minute appearance for an All-Star team went and is now looking optimistically to the future.

He said: "It's great to feel the pressure again and to know that I am back where I belong," said the former Bayern Munich man, who won 69 caps for Germany.

"I never thought of giving up. I'm a footballer and am prepared to grit my teeth. It has always been my goal and my motivation to get back on the pitch."

Babbel, who has been given a new contract at Anfield despite his health problems, is now desperate to be part of the Liverpool set-up again as soon as possible.

"I'm hoping to play a full role in pre-season training," he said.