Liverpool FC

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Key Reds trio face late tests

23 Oct 2009 - 14:28:12

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Key trio Fernando Torres, Steven Gerrard and Glen Johnson all face late fitness tests to discover whether they will be fit enough to take part in Liverpool's Premier League clash with Manchester United.

All three continue to be troubled by groin injuries in the build-up to a game on Sunday which the stuttering Reds cannot afford to lose if they are to keep their dwindling title hopes alive.

Torres and Johnson both missed Tuesday's 2-1 Champions League defeat at the hands of Lyon with groin problems.

Skipper Gerrard lasted less than 30 minutes of what proved to be the Reds' fourth defeat in a row before he suffered a recurrence of his own groin injury which was picked up on England duty two weeks ago.

"It's the same situation for all the players," said under-pressure manager Rafael Benitez.

"Fernando trained today (Friday) and has been working to a specific programme.

"We will speak with the physios over the weekend before making a decision about Steven.

"Hopefully Glen will be available but we'll have to wait and see. We will make late decisions with all of them."

Meanwhile, Benitez has ruled out the possibility of Alberto Aquilani making the matchday squad despite his return from a knee injury.

The Italy midfielder made his first appearance for the club in a reserve team game in midweek following his £20million summer arrival from Roma.