
Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez believes star duo Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres are close to rediscovering their deadly partnership from last season.
Spain international Torres and Reds skipper Gerrard grabbed 53 goals between them in 2007/08, but they have been frequently kept apart this term due to the former's injury problems.
Benitez, though, believes that Gerrard's equaliser in the 1-1 FA Cup draw with Everton on Sunday, which was assisted by a brilliant Torres backheel, provides evidence the pair are almost back to their best.
"We know the understanding between both was crucial last season, it will be again this season now they are back together again," said the Anfield boss.
"In some games they can kill defenders with their skills. The goal they created was excellent against Everton in the cup.
"The piece of skill from Torres to create the goal shows that he is getting very close to his best again.
"He showed that the understanding between him and Gerrard will be crucial for us for the rest of the season.
"What he did to send Gerrard away is something you do not see from many players. He certainly needed a good runner to get on the end of it!
"Fernando also needed to be aware of where Gerrard was, to see him and to find him with the ball. It was certainly something very special."
Benitez has also credited Gerrard for his focus despite a recent court appearance, with another hearing scheduled for 20th March before a committal to crown court.
"Steven is such an important player. People have been asking a lot about him and how he is handling things, but on the pitch he is showing that he is focused only on showing how good he is," he added.
"Steven is doing well, and his understanding with Torres is good. He is a very good professional and he will continue to keep playing well."

0 comments:
Post a Comment