The boss finally gave his £20m signing his first start and his performance was one of the few plus points in yet another disappointing game.
"I think [Aquilani] showed his quality. He has to improve his match fitness, but in terms of his touch, vision and passing it was good," said Benitez.
When asked if the Italian would retain his place for the Arsenal game, Benitez had this to say: "We will see if everyone is available and then we will decide. We have to see how they train."