RAFAEL BENITEZ has given an ominous assessment of Fernando Torres’s fitness to Liverpool and Spain by revealing that the striker’s hernia injury may persist all season and even cast doubt on his involvement in the World Cup.

Torres, ordered to rest for three weeks rather than undergo surgery by a specialist in Valencia last month, will be absent for a fifth week when Liverpool travel to Blackburn Rovers today. Benitez has admitted Torres remains at risk due to a problem that could have lasting repercussions for club and country.

“He was training from the beginning of the season but only part of the training sessions,” said Benitez. “We played 30 minutes’ football the other day and he was involved but you do not want to take any risks. He is still not fully fit but he is very close, so hopefully will be with us against Fiorentina (on Wednesday).”

Despite his confidence in Torres’ availability, Benitez yesterday warned Spain’s medical team that surgery is not a viable alternative. “When you have this kind of problem it is very difficult,” he said. “We were talking about how to manage it at a conference with four specialists the other day, and everyone had their own opinion, so it is not easy.

“Maybe he will be stronger in the second part of the season because he hasn’t played too many games in the first half. After that, we have to analyse what his condition is. Today I was talking with the fitness coach of Spain, we have to see how he progresses during the season. I think he will have this all season”

GuardianService