Liverpool Football Club News

• Nickname:Reds
• Founded:1892
• Manager:Kenny Dalglish

• Ground:Anfield
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Rafa: Torres was exhausted

05 Apr 2010 - 10:43:35

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Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has defended his decision to substitute an "exhausted" Fernando Torres against Birmingham City.

Sunday's 1-1 draw at St Andrew's was a further blow to the Anfield club's hopes of finishing fourth in the Premier League and securing a return to the Champions League.

However, Benitez raised eyebrows with his decision to haul off the in-form Spain striker with 25 minutes remaining in a must-win match.

David N'Gog replaced Torres but missed several chances as the game ended in stalemate.

Referring to Thursday's Europa League clash with Benfica, Benitez explained: "Torres was exhausted, we played 60 minutes with 10 players the other day.

"N'Gog was good because he was a pair of fresh legs and his movement was good."

Liverpool are now sixth in the table and four points behind City, having played a game more than the Eastlands club.