Ben Foster wants to follow in the footsteps of teenage full-back Rafael as he attempts to finally launch his Manchester United career.

The one-cap England keeper is expected to start against Aalborg tonight as he battles his way back from last season's knee injury.

He hopes to match the impact of 18-year-old Rafael, who has forced his way into the first team ahead of Wes Brown and Gary Neville.

Foster said: "Young players show what they can do in training and then, if they do it in matches, they are kept in the team. I'd like to think that could happen with me." Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, meanwhile, looked to the future after last night's 3-1 win over PSV Eindhoven.

The Spaniard's 40th European victory - a club record - ensured the Reds qualified for the knockout stages as group winners.

But the manager claimed the most important outcome was the appearance of three Academy youngsters - Stephen Darby, Jay Spearing and Martin Kelly - all of whom were handed their Champions League debuts.

Benitez said: "They all did well, while Lucas and David Ngog were outstanding."