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Rafa makes Torres admission
Liverpool, 12:11, January 23, 2009 ,
Rafa Benitez feels Fernando Torres is close to full fitness and says the Liverpool ace needs a run of games to get his confidence back.
The Spanish sensation started his first game since late November when featuring in Monday's 1-1 draw against Everton and is now expected to start in Sunday's FA Cup Merseyside derby at Anfield.
Benitez has been keen to ease Torres, who has six goals to his name in an injury-hit season, back into action after a couple of worrying hamstring problems in recent months.
But those eyeing a free £10 bet on the Reds should note that the Liverpool manager is confident that Torres will be back in top form soon, just in time for a crunch league clash with Chelsea in two weeks.
Benitez told the club's website: "I was impressed with him on Monday. It is not easy to play in a derby when it is so intense. He was exhausted at the end but he did well.
"He is very close to full fitness, now it's just about getting match fitness. He needs to play games.
"You know a striker needs to play games and be in front of the goal a few times. That's the key - getting the confidence."
Torres will also have one eye on next month's Champions League clash against La Liga giants Real Madrid, with the first leg at the Bernabeu on Wednesday February 25.