Torres to start against Reds; Downing in for Sturridge

Former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, on his first return to Anfield in opposition, named ex-Reds striker Fernando Torres in Chelsea’s team.

The Spain international retained his place from the midweek win over Fulham with three changes seeing Cesar Azpilicueta, John Obi Mikel and Oscar return with veterans John Terry and Frank Lampard relegated to the bench.

Liverpool’s one alteration from the goalless draw at Reading last week resulted in former Chelsea forward Daniel Sturridge being replaced by Stewart Downing.

Liverpool: Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Agger, Jose Enrique, Gerrard, Lucas, Downing, Henderson, Coutinho, Suarez.

Subs: Jones, Assaidi, Sturridge, Coates, Shelvey, Coady, Skrtel.

Chelsea: Cech, Azpilicueta, Ivanovic, Luiz, Bertrand, Ramires, Mikel, Mata, Oscar, Hazard, Torres.

Subs: Turnbull, Lampard, Moses, Ferreira, Terry, Ba, Benayoun.

Referee: Kevin Friend (Leicestershire)