Aurelio's initial spell at Liverpool was hampered by injuries

Defender Fabio Aurelio, who left Liverpool in May, has re-joined the club on a two-year deal.

The Brazilian quit after his contract expired, but new boss Roy Hodgson offered him the chance to train with the Reds in a bid to earn a return.

"We were very impressed, and I am delighted we were able to re-sign Fabio," said Hodgson.

Aurelio, 30, said: "I feel very pleased and proud. It feels like I'm signing for the first time."

He added: "Everything has changed so it's like a new beginning for me with new confidence and a new boss."

Aurelio made 71 appearances in four seasons after being brought to Anfield by former boss Rafael Benitez.

Hodgson told Liverpoolfc.tv: "I asked the club to find out whether Fabio had found a new club.

"When we ascertained that he hadn't, we invited him back to Melwood so myself and my staff and the medical team could properly assess the player."

Aurelio, who joined Liverpool on a free transfer from Valencia in July 2006, called time on his first spell at Anfield after failing to agree a new contract.

606: DEBATE Will Aurelio slot straight into the first team or will he be our left-sided utility man? Are we still on the search for a left back? Liverpoolguy

After being hampered by several injuries, he was offered - and turned down - a pay-as-you-play deal.

Benitez, now in charge at Inter Milan, said at the time: "He has given us absolutely fantastic service.

"The one problem we had with Fabio was that he suffered too many injuries and it was such a pity because he has great quality."

"We had been trying to work something out but it was a pity that we couldn't."

Aurelio was included in the Liverpool squad that travelled to Germany for Sunday's pre-season friendly at Borussia Moenchengladbach.

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