Villa midfielder relishing Reds test

Aug 2 2007 By Bill Howell, Birmingham Mail

PATRIK Berger knows full well that the real test for Villa comes in just nine days' time, when his former club Liverpool roll into town.

But the Czech play-maker, who is enjoying a renaissance at the club, says Villa are on track with their pre-season and they are ready to rumble against Inter Milan at Villa Park on Saturday (3pm).

The runaway Italian champions from last season were in fine form last night, winning 3-2 at Manchester United.

"The Inter game will be the biggest pre-season test for us," said Berger. "But the main thing is we get through the 90 minutes and don't get injured and are then ready for an even bigger game against Liverpool.

"Inter are in their pre-season as well. They need to get their fitness up and will be tired also, but we are looking forward to it. They easily won their league last season and have plenty of top players.

"It is an interesting game for the supporters and I expect there will be a big crowd. But even that is not really important. The big game is the one against Liverpool on August 11 and we all know that.

"That is what we are working hard towards and the training sessions are just as important as the matches at this stage."

Berger was pleased with his goal against Stoke last night and believes he is in his best shape.

"I need a bit more of a recovery than some of those 20-year-old boys, but the North American trip was very good for us and last night was probably the best I have felt during the three games we have played," he said.

"I am glad we are back in England now and the season is getting closer. Stoke was a good game, a good crowd, and I enjoyed it. It's always nice to score a goal but that's not really what is important right now - we need to play and get fitness to be ready.

"It was important to have a good work-out and I think we got that at Stoke. It's also important to go into the season with some momentum and we have won all three games so far this summer."