Torres and Gerrard are my keys to victory, claims Benitez
Tuesday, 22 Apr 2008 08:55
Fernando Torres (left) and Steven Gerrard (centre) are Liverpool's key players, Benitez says
Rafael Benitez believes striker Fernando Torres and midfielder Steven Gerrard could make the difference for
Liverpool in their crunch clash with
Chelsea.
The Reds and the Blues will contest a third Champions League semi-final in four years when they meet in the two-legged contest this week and next, with the first leg to be played at Anfield tonight.
And Benitez, who has masterminded victories for his side in both previous last-four encounters, says his two star men may hold the key to establishing a first-leg lead to take to Stamford Bridge next week.
"Gerrard is a key player for us, and when he scores the winner in the semi-final maybe Chelsea will see even more how important he is for us," the Spaniard explained.
"However, it is not just about one or two players. We have players of quality who can change a game, and we must play as a unit.
"But when you have Torres or Gerrard, and you are not playing well, the team know that these players can score to get you out of a problem.
"We have a lot of confidence because we know Torres can create something."
Gerrard had been a doubt for the match because of a neck injury he sustained last week, and consequently he was rested for the 2-0 win at
Fulham on Saturday.
However, after training yesterday the England international is reported to be ready and raring to go in the hope of repeating the side's triumph in the 2005 competition when they beat AC Milan on penalties in a thrilling final.
Torres, the club's record signing and top scorer this season, was also rested for the match at Craven Cottage in a bid to keep him fresh for tonight's fixture.