Gerrard: Torres’ absence damaged our confidence

LIVERPOOL captain Steven Gerrard admits the absence of injured striker Fernando Torres damaged belief within the squad but insists the prospect of a Europa League final and snatching fourth place in the Barclays Premier League has lifted spirits.

Torres’ presence in a Liverpool starting line-up not only offers them a considerable goal threat but the fear factor he generates means team-mates are often given more freedom by opponents.

That has been missing since the Spain international’s last appearance in the quarter-final second-leg victory over Benfica, after which he underwent a second knee operation in three months which prematurely ended his Liverpool season.