Benitez talks down early Torres return

(GSM) – Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has played down speculation that star striker Fernando Torres could make his return to action against Manchester City next weekend.

Widespread reports on Friday suggested Torres could make a sooner than expected return against City in their crucial clash at Eastlands next Sunday.

The Spain international has been out of action since picking up a knee injury in the FA Cup defeat to Reading and was expected to be sidelined for up to six weeks.

While, the 25-year-old is making good progress in his recovery, Benitez has rubbished claims that he could feature at Manchester City a week on Sunday.

“I think it will be too early,” Benitez told the club’s official website.

“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 is also sweating on the fitness of defender Jamie Carragher for the trip to UEFA Champions League rivals City.

Carragher sustained a groin injury in the midweek defeat to Arsenal and although Benitez does not expect the defender to be fit for the Europa League meeting with Unirea Urziceni, he is hopeful he will be available for the showdown with City.

“I am not sure if he will be available for Thursday against Unirea, but maybe he will have a chance against City,” added Benitez.