Javier Mascherano: I'll win more trophies with Liverpool FC

"I am feeling really good," he said.

"Obviously I still need to adapt to the training again because it's totally different to how you train with an international team.

"I feel ready for Aston Villa but it depends on what Rafa thinks.

"I won the gold not just for me but for all the Liverpool fans, my teammates who were here working hard, and for Rafa as well.

"Rafa and the club gave me the chance to win this gold medal - they could have told me I couldn't go.

"I have to say 'thank you' to everyone at the club and also the fans for understanding.

"I will now try to do my best to help bring some titles to Liverpool."

Meanwhile, fellow Reds midfielder Steven Gerrard was today undergoing surgery following a consultation with his specialist yesterday.

The Liverpool captain has been playing through the pain barrier for the past fortnight with a troublesome groin injury and surgeons will today attempt to clear the problem up once and for all.

Mascherano is expected to come straight back into Rafa Benitez's starting line up for the trip to Villa Park as a straight replacement for Gerrard.

tonybarrett@liverpoolecho.co.uk