Torres set to miss WC opener

(GSM) – Liverpool and Spain striker Fernando Torres is set to miss his nation’s opening match of the World Cup, according to Liverpool’s new head of sports medicine and sports science, Peter Brukner.

The star striker is currently recovering from a second knee operation in three months to repair a torn meniscus, but Brukner has warned that he must get the balance right between rehabilitation and rest if he is to play any part in the showpiece at South Africa.

European champions Spain begin their quest for global glory with their Group H clash against Switzerland on 16th June, before further meetings with further games against Chile and Honduras to follow.

“He’s doing well and he’s certainly tremendously committed to his rehab, as are the staff here, and if anyone can recover from an injury, he can,” said Brukner.

“You can’t be absolutely certain of anything but at this stage, if he continues to progress the way he is, he should be fit to play at some stage during the World Cup.
“Whether he’ll be fit for the first game or not is uncertain.”

Brukner is also wary of Torres returning to action too soon because of the long-term impact for Liverpool, who are desperate to have their main striker fit for the start of next season.

Brukner added on the club’s official website: “We’re anxious not to hurry him along too much because we want the long-term benefit, but we’re aware he’s got the short-term goal of playing in the World Cup.

“Hopefully we can get a compromise between those two where he plays in the World Cup and he’s fit and well for Liverpool next season.”