Benitez expects Torres to miss City clash

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez admits reports that Fernando Torres will return to action in next weekend’s match at Manchester City are wide of the mark.

Torres is currently sidelined with a knee injury suffered in Liverpool’s shock FA Cup loss to Reading last month.

But the Spain striker was reported to be making quick progress in his recovery, fuelling speculation that he may feature against city.

However, Benitez insists Torres, who is Liverpool’s top goalscorer with 12 this season despite making only 21 appearances, is unlikely to be risked at Eastlands because he is still not taking part in full training.

“I think it will be too early. He is training with the physios and the fitness coach, but he’s still not involved with the team. We will see next week how he progresses,” Benitez told Liverpool’s website.