You'll Never Walk Alone

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez hopes Fernando Torres will be back in action in a fortnight - but doesn't want to "put pressure on him".The Spanish striker is due for another consultation over his hamstring problem with Spanish specialist Ramon Cugat in Barcelona, and expects the all-clear to resume full training.

Benitez said: "I have been talking to Fernando today, and he is much better. But how long before he returns, I don't know.

"He is in light training. It could be one or two weeks, but I don't want to put pressure on him."

Benitez also revealed his delight with Torres' nomination for the World Player of the Year award.

"I am pleased he has been nominated for the World Player of the Year award - it is well deserved. To score 33 goals in your first season in England and then to win the European title with Spain shows his quality.

"There are some very good players also nominated, but I feel Fernando has a good chance.

"Of course, Cristiano Ronaldo is also nominated - and he is a very good player, too. It could be him; it could be Torres - but I will always support Fernando.

"It is very positive for him and for us. He was doing very well, and his record last season is a massive achievement."

Benitez has again dismissed claims that Daniel Agger could be going to AC Milan, while explaining the midweek revelation of Ajax's interest in Ryan Babel.

He said: "It is more difficult for the players who are not playing. Ryan Babel has been linked with a move away, but it was Ajax who approached me.

"They were selling (Klaas Jan) Hunterlaar and wanted Ryan on loan, and I said no. He will stay with us; he can be a very important player for the rest of the season.

"The problem Babel has is the form of Albert Riera. If it was the other way around, Riera would have a problem. But that is what it is like at the very top."