Torres returns for Gunners clash

Striker Fernando Torres returned to Liverpool’s starting line up for the first time since November 4 for the visit of Arsenal to Anfield in the Barclays Premier League.

The Spain striker played 25 minutes in the midweek Champions League defeat to Fiorentina – his first appearance for six matches – and was deemed fit enough to start.

He was one of six changes from the European side, with goalkeeper Jose Reina, defenders Glen Johnson, Jamie Carragher and Fabio Aurelio, and midfielder Lucas Leiva also returning.

Arsenal’s team bore no resemblance to the one packed with youngsters which lost to Olympiacos in midweek.

Only Theo Walcott survived from that as manager Arsene Wenger reverted to his strongest team, which meant the England winger and Alex Song – back from suspension – were the only two changes from last weekend’s victory over Stoke.

Liverpool: Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Agger, Aurelio, Mascherano, Lucas, Kuyt, Gerrard, Benayoun, Torres.

Subs: Cavalieri, Aquilani, Insua, Ngog, Degen, Skrtel, Dossena.

Arsenal: Almunia, Sagna, Gallas, Vermaelen, Traore, Fabregas, Song Billong, Denilson, Walcott, Arshavin, Nasri.

Subs: Fabianski, Diaby, Eduardo, Vela, Ramsey, Silvestre, Wilshere.

Referee: Howard Webb (S Yorkshire)