Defender's World Cup dream

Emiliano Insua admits it would be a 'dream' to represent Argentina at this summer's World Cup finals - but the defender knows his Liverpool form will be key to securing a ticket to South Africa.

The 21-year-old was rewarded for his fine club performances with a first cap for Argentina in a dramatic qualifying victory over Peru in October.

Insua has not figured for his nation since, but is well aware hard work with the Reds can help catch the eye of coach Diego Maradona once again.

"I think only Maradona knows what he will do in the future," he told Liverpool's official matchday programme.

"For me, the only thing I can do is keep playing and improving.

"Of course, I have the dream to play in the World Cup but it is only a dream and I have to keep doing well for Liverpool.

"If I am lucky enough to be there, it will be fantastic and if not, I will support the country."

Argentina will be amongst the favourites to lift the trophy this summer - and Insua already knows how it feels to help his country to international glory.

The full-back played an integral role in La Albiceleste's U20 World Cup success of 2007.

"I have a good memory of that," he reflected. "We won the tournament and it was very important for my development and for all the players that were there.

"We had a good team and other players who were in that team are now playing in very good teams in Europe such as Sergio Aguero and Mauro Zarate so it is nice to recall that.

"But I am always trying to look forward because you cannot dwell on the past."

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