Xabi glad to be back

Last updated : 28 December 2007 By Al Campbell
The Basque midfielder made his first Premiership appearance since his ill-fated outing against Arsenal over two months ago when he featured against Derby County on Boxing Day. It's a relief for Alonso to be playing again after so long on the sidelines this season.

"Of course when you are on the sidelines and injured, watching it from the boxes, it is frustrating, but I am back now and looking forward to the next few games," he said.

"I'm getting that match fitness that you need. After playing against Chelsea last week, I was delighted to get another 90 minutes. I am getting there after almost three months out of the game.

"I felt okay against Derby. But it's up to the manager whether I will play against Manchester City."