Dalglish dismisses Stamford Bridge sub-plots

Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish has played down the importance of Fernando Torres ahead of his side’s clash with Chelsea on Sunday.

Both the Spanish forward and midfielder Raul Meireles, who joined the Blues on transfer deadline days in January and August respectively, are set to face their former employers at Stamford Bridge.

But Dalglish said it would be business as usual when the two sides meet in the English Premier League encounter.

“I don’t think you ever need an excuse to take three points – it’s always a pleasure to take three points,” Dalglish said.

“We’ll go there and try our best to repeat last season’s result (a 1-0 win in February).”

Since moving to the capital, Torres has failed to regain the form which made him an Anfield favourite. But Dalglish refused to be drawn on the Spaniard, saying: “It’s nothing to do with us.”

The corresponding clash in February marked Torres’ debut for Chelsea, but Liverpool claimed the three points through Meireles’ winner.

Dalglish’s side travel to Stamford Bridge unbeaten in their last six matches – including four draws – and the Anfield legend believes it is just a matter of time until the his side rediscover their cutting edge.

“It’s difficult when the ball is not going in the back of the net for you, but they’re certainly making enough chances to do that,” Dalglish said.

“There is a difference between confidence and arrogance, but I think the players should have belief in themselves.”

“Eventually they’ll do it and somebody is going to get battered one day – the sooner the better for us. But even after they turn their chances into goals, it still doesn’t mean the season is finished – we’ve just got to keep going.”