MANAGER Rafael Benitez last night paid tribute to “amazing” Fernando Torres as he dismissed concerns that Liverpool’s financial restraints could trigger the striker’s exit next summer.
The 25-year-old frontman is set to make his 100th appearance for the club in tonight’s Premier League clash with Wigan Athletic at Anfield.
Torres needs two goals to reach a half century of league strikes quicker than any other player in Liverpool’s history.
The Spaniard has proved to be a major hit since he was snapped up from Atletico Madrid for £20million in the summer of 2007.
“He’s been an amazing signing for the club,” Benitez said.
“His first year was fantastic and he did everything really well. In his second year he had some problems with injuries but he still did well.
“Hopefully this year he’ll give to us the same as he did in his first season. On the pitch he is good but he is also a great professional and he means a lot to the fans.”
Liverpool’s struggles so far this season and their inability to compete financially with their rivals due to the huge debts imposed by co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks have raised fears Torres may decide to cut short his stay on Merseyside.
Reports have suggested big-spending Manchester City are prepared to test the club’s resolve with a huge bid.
However, Benitez insists Torres understands Liverpool’s financial situation and he is convinced none of his star names will have to go anywhere else in search of Champions League football next season.
“I was talking with Fernando and Steven Gerrard recently, and they know we have a different situation to other clubs that we have to manage,” Benitez said.
“We were talking about the future of the club and they were both very supportive. Everyone wants to win trophies and our idea is to bring silverware to the club every year.
“We have lost some opportunities but we still have the FA Cup and the Europa League. We must also improve in the league.
“They know the priority is to perform now, not talk too much about the future. We are working together and I can guarantee we will finish in the top four.”
Benitez believes the home fans will have a key role to play tonight in helping Liverpool bounce back from the defeat to Arsenal against a Wigan side who have the worst defensive record in the Premier League.
“Our fans are very clever and they know the way to improve and change things is to support and stay behind the team,” he said.
“The fans will always be with the club because it is a massive club and we have the best fans in the world.
“We have to perform on the pitch and it will be easier for them to support the team.
“Ever since I arrived here, I have been really proud. Every time we go to another country, you can see what Liverpool means to everyone – like in Asia for example. The fans are disappointed, and we are disappointed too because we want to improve and win games. The only way to change things is to keep working together.”
Javier Mascherano is expected to be fit but Glen Johnson faces a late fitness test after picking up a knock last weekend.
There will be a parade of Liverpool legends on the pitch at half-time tonight to mark the 50th anniversary of Bill Shankly’s first game in charge.
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