Source: Telegraph
Liverpool too reliant on Fernando Torres and Steven Gerrard, says Gianfranco Zola
Both players have spent time in the treatment room and Liverpool have suffered as a result by fading from the race for a Champions League place. [LNB]West Ham United travel to Anfield tonight knowing that Torres is out because of a knee injury and Zola offers a simple explanation for Liverpool's problems this season. [LNB] Related ArticlesLiverpool v West Ham: previewAlan Hansen: United title is Liverpool fans' nightmareHicks wants £800m for LiverpoolNew questions at LiverpoolLiverpool sale Q&ALiverpool owners put club up for sale"Gerrard and Torres are massive players, when they are on the pitch it makes a big difference to Liverpool," he said. [LNB]"It's a pity they haven't been available for the whole season because of injuries and Liverpool's problems lie within that. [LNB]"Liverpool don't have the same number of players as Manchester United, Manchester City or Chelsea. [LNB]"When they are in good form they can be a really good team. They can stand with United and Chelsea. [LNB]"But Torres has had too many injuries and it's a big ask for them without him." [LNB]Zola insists Liverpool, who are scheduled to play the first leg of their Europa League semi-final against Atletico Madrid on Thursday, remain dangerous even without Torres. [LNB]"Liverpool can still cause us problems. Torres is a big asset but I like David Ngog, he can be a problem for us," he said. [LNB]"We don't have to think about Torres' injury being an advantage for us, we still need to perform and do very well." [LNB]A wave of optimism has swept through Upton Park since four points were secured in the last two matches against Everton and Sunderland. [LNB]And Zola credits a desire to roll up the sleeves for the change in fortunes. [LNB]"The last few games haven't been pretty but the work rate and desire has been top class and that's why we will get important points," he added. [LNB]
