Anfield signings lift Torres’ gloom
Albert Riera topped a trio of new signings at Anfield after arriving from Espanyol on a four-year deal for an undisclosed fee. The Spain winger became Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez’s number one target following the collapse of his bid to sign Aston Villa’s England midfielder Gareth Barry.
“Riera has the qualities we were looking for,” said Benitez.
“He’s a left-footer who normally plays on the left wing. He’s good in the air, strong, powerful and a good crosser of the ball. He can beat players and get good deliveries into the area for our strikers. He also had offers from other English clubs, but he said no to them because he wanted to come and play for us.”
The arrival of Riera has helped soften the blow of losing star striker Torres to a hamstring injury. Torres faces a battle to be fit for the Reds’ Champions League opener at Marseille on September 16 after limping off in the goalless draw at Villa on Sunday.
The 24-year-old has been withdrawn from the Spain squad for the European champions’ World Cup qualifiers against Bosnia and Armenia.
A Liverpool spokesman said: “A scan has confirmed a hamstring tear in Fernando’s right leg. He is expected to be out for between two and three weeks.”
Heading in the opposite direction to Riera is full-back Steve Finnan, who has signed a two-year contract with Espanyol.
Finnan was followed out of the door by striker Andriy Voronin, who has joined German side Hertha Berlin on a year-long loan.
Benitez’s first move of the day was to sign 18-year-old Brazilian striker Vitor Flora from Botafogo.
Goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi, who spent last season on loan playing for the reserves, also signed from MTK Hungaria.
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