EMILIANO INSUA is hoping for a chance to prove he is worthy of an extended run in the Liverpool first team following his encouraging display at Arsenal.

The Argentine was an impressive performer after injuries to Andrea Dossena and Fabio Aurelio handed him a surprise recall to the left-back slot for Sunday’s trip to the Emirates.

It was only Insua’s second Premier League start of the campaign after a similarly confident outing at Blackburn Rovers earlier in the month.

And now, the 19-year-old is eager to retain his position when Bolton Wanderers visit on Boxing Day.

“The boss gave me an opportunity to show what I can do and maybe I might get another chance to play at Anfield against Bolton,” said Insua.

“Anfield is always a very special place to play and hopefully I can stay in the first-team squad.

“I thought we played well and could have won the game but a point away against a team like Arsenal is a good result.

“I enjoyed the game and tried to do the simple things well and to get forward as much as I could to help the attack.

“Playing at Arsenal is always very difficult as they are a good team but I thought we did well.”

Insua was brought to Anfield from Boca Juniors on an initial loan spell in January 2007, and made two appearances towards the end of the campaign.

The Argentine also played three games last season and was a regular in the reserve team that lifted their national championship.

“Last season I played for the reserves which was a fantastic season for us and the boss gave me my first team chance when I played in the final two games of last season, which I really enjoyed,” said Insua.