Emiliano Insua leaves Liverpool for Sporting Lisbon

Aug 29 2011 Liverpool Echo

EMILIANO INSUA has left Liverpool to join Sporting Lisbon on a five-year contract.

The 22-year-old left-back's departure had been expected with him out of favour at Anfield.

Insua, who joined the Reds from Boca Juniors in 2007, returned to the club this summer after spending last season on loan at Galatasaray.

However, the signing of Jose Enrique and the emergence of Jack Robinson left him surplus to requirements.

“Sporting is one of the big Portuguese clubs and is recognised for having top players,” Insua said.

“I am delighted to start training and playing here. The club is always looking to win titles. I will give everything for Sporting.”

Insua made 62 appearances for the Reds and scored once in the Carling Cup against Arsenal in 2009.

LIVERPOOL face a long trip to Championship outfit Brighton in the third round of the Carling Cup. The Reds will travel to the new Amex Stadium for the clash with the Seagulls in the week commencing September 19.

The last time the clubs faced each other in the competition was at the same stage back in October 1985. Kenny Dalglish's goal and a hat-trick from Paul Walsh secured a 4-0 win for Liverpool at Anfield.