Anfield signings lift Torres’ gloom

LIVERPOOL’S encouraging activity on transfer deadline day has been tempered by the news Fernando Torres is out for up to three weeks, missing the game with arch-rivals Manchester United at Anfield on Saturday week.

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.