EMILIANO INSUA admits he is desperate to be involved in next summer’s World Cup finals – but insists holding down a place in the Liverpool side remains his number one priority.

The 20-year-old left-back won his first cap for Argentina in their dramatic victory over Peru last month but was left out of the squad for this Saturday’s friendly with Spain.

Insua knows his form for Liverpool is crucial to his hopes of forcing his way back into Diego Maradona’s plans.

“It was very special to play because it was a crucial time for my country,” Insua said.

“I will never forget that I helped them to qualify for the World Cup, but I know I have to keep working hard for Liverpool first, then my country.

“I want to play in South Africa next year, but Liverpool comes first and if I play well for my club, then I hope that more games for Argentina will follow.”

Injuries to Fabio Aurelio and Andrea Dossena have helped Insua establish himself as Liverpool’s first choice left-back and he has already made 16 appearances so far this season.

He scored his first goal for the club in the recent Carling Cup defeat at Arsenal and he is determined to keep hold of his spot after the international break.

“It’s been a very good season for me but I want to play more,” he said.

“I always want more but the only thing I can do is keep working hard and look to the future.”