Torres, Aquilani set to feature*AA*

Torres, Aquilani set to feature

(PA) Wednesday 9 December 2009
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Fernando Torres and Alberto Aquilani are poised to be included as Liverpool complete their disappointing UEFA Champions League campaign at home to already-qualified Fiorentina today.

Rafael Benitez's men, the UEFA Champions League winners in 2005 and finalists in 2007, failed to progress from Group E, with two losses from five games ahead of the contest with La Viola. The UEFA Champions League has proved to be a bitter experience for Benitez and the Reds this season, with both more accustomed to glory nights at Anfield in the knockout stages.

But there are positives for the five-time European champions ahead of Sunday's crunch Premier League fixture with Arsenal. Spain striker Torres is set to return from a groin injury, Italian midfielder Aquilani - a £20 million signing from Roma - is poised to start for the first time and captain Steven Gerrard is expected to feature.

Goalkeeper Jose Reina and forward Dirk Kuyt, however, appear set to be rested for the dead rubber. Reports from Italy suggested Aquilani was becoming frustrated at his lack of playing time, with his father claiming he has been fully recovered from his knee injury for over a month.

But Benitez played down any hint of discontent. "Aquilani was a little surprised to hear critical comments supposedly from his father on why he was not playing here - he does not believe they are accurate," the manager said.
He (Aquilani) understands why he has not played much yet, he has not been fit and now needs match fitness
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez on key off-season recruit Alberto Aquilani.

"He understands why he has not played much yet, he has not been fit and now needs match fitness. He needs to get used to the English game and it would have been a risk to play him in such tough games as at Everton and Blackburn.

"But we are out of the Champions League, he can play against Fiorentina and get used to things better without so much pressure. We can now see how he will react."

Benitez is far from satisfied with missing out on the UEFA Champions League knockout stages, but insists Liverpool must take the opportunity to prepare for the crucial contest with Arsenal. "Of course I am disappointed with this situation," he said. "Over the last five years we have always qualified for the last 16, sometimes before the last group game.

"Now we are experiencing totally different feelings, but it is done now, we cannot change the position we are in. We now must think about the future, to do our best in the Premier League and the Europa League. We want to win every game in front of our fans at Anfield, we must do well and then win against Arsenal here on Sunday."

Benitez is certain Liverpool will be back among Europe's elite next season. "I am convinced we will have Champions League football back here next season," he added. "We have not lost in six and kept three consecutive clean sheets. We must concentrate on the positives, then we must take steps forward. We are doing that."