Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has agreed to Scott Carson's pleas not to have his England future ruined by a season on the bench.

Carson will join Aston Villa on loan for another season away from Anfield, having spent last term at Charlton.

Benitez has refused to sell Carson this summer, and had told the player he will be Jose Reina's number two.

But with Carson now a regular in the England squad and the Euro 2008 finals at the end of the new campaign, activity would not have helped his cause.

Carson has now pleaded with Benitez to allow him the chance to maintain his form and match fitness in a loan spell.

Benitez said: ''He understandably wants to play every week.

''He wants to maintain his position in the England squad. And it would suit us if he was playing and improving, and that is what will happen.'

Liverpool last night signed Lens goalkeeper Charles Itandje, according to the French club.