Rafa reveals late Torres call

26 October 2009 07:26
// A bit of a hack but it works// The article snippet is wrapped onto a second line, even when #article-sub is emptyif( $("div#article-sub").children().length == 0 ) {$("div#article-sub").remove();} Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has revealed that he only decided to start Fernando Torres against Manchester United when travelling to Anfield.[LNB] The Reds' ace striker had only taken part in two light training sessions in the build-up to the crucial match after being sidelined with a groin problem.[LNB]But with reports of a pain-killing injection, Torres was named in the first XI and Benitez's late decision on his line-up was repaid as the forward scored the first goal in a 2-0 win.[LNB]Torres was substituted in the latter stages and replaced by second goalscorer David Ngog, but Benitez knew that it was vital to start with his star asset. [LNB]The Reds chief, who was without injured captain Steven Gerrard, said: "I talked with Fernando on the coach, and that was when I was really convinced that he could play.[LNB]Difficult decision"In the morning I had decided that he would be involved, but I needed convincing he could start rather than just be a substitute.[LNB]"Playing Fernando was a difficult decision. He was not training, the same as Steven Gerrard.[LNB]"But after talking with him we decided it was better to start the game with him.[LNB]"You could see he was not 100 per cent fit, but sometimes 80% of Fernando can make a difference.[LNB]"We had to be very careful with him, that is why we took him off near the end.[LNB]"You have to take care of him. But we were waiting for that final pass and when it came we knew he would score."[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports