Source: Liverpool_Echo
Liverpool FC boss Rafa Benitez revels in David Ngog’s rise to centre stage
Rafa revels in Ngog's rise to centre stage[LNB]THE feelgood factor generated by a hard-fought derby triumph was dented slightly at Melwood yesterday.[LNB]Rafa Benitez's hopes of welcoming back Fernando Torres for today's clash with Blackburn Rovers were dashed during a morning training session.[LNB]The Spaniard has made great progress since he was put on a three-week rehabilitation programme aimed at easing his troublesome groin injury.[LNB]However, it was decided the trip to Ewood Park has come too soon for the Reds' 10-goal top scorer.[LNB]History dictates a cautious approach is best with Torres and so Benitez will ask the emerging David Ngog to lead the line once again against Sam Allardyce's side.[LNB]The 20-year-old Frenchman has started the Reds' last four matches in Torres' absence and his manager is delighted with the way the Frenchman has risen to the challenge.[LNB]His seven starts and five substitute appearances this season have yielded five goals and Benitez's belief in his £1.5million signing is growing.[LNB]'Ngog is doing really well,' Benitez said.[LNB]'To play in Torres' position is difficult but he has very good quality and movement.[LNB]'We were thinking about him as replacing Torres during some games this season, not to play more or less every game.[LNB]'But it's really good for his experience.[LNB]'He's working really hard, scoring goals and progressing well.[LNB]'Ngog is keen to learn and we're really happy with him.'[LNB]Torres, who hasn't featured since the 1-1 draw in Lyon on November 4, could make his return in next Wednesday's meaningless final Champions League group game against Fiorentina at Anfield.[LNB]Benitez said: 'Fernando won't be in the squad to face Blackburn but he's been training with us and is much better.[LNB]'He's very close and is not feeling pain like he did before which is really good. But Saturday is too soon.[LNB]'The doctor was saying he would be out for three weeks and we're around that time.[LNB]'We have to keep an eye on him and hopefully we'll be able to give him some minutes against Fiorentina.[LNB]'It's really good for us that one of the best strikers in the world is close to coming back.'
