Benitez: 'Nobody is scared'

Updated 10.04 Wed Apr 02 2008

Keywords: Wenger, Gerrard, Torres, Benitez

Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez believes Fernando Torres could play a crucial role in the Champions League quarter-final.

"We both know much about each other, so it is down to the players. Torres can be the big difference."

"Torres can be the big difference" - Rafa Benitez

Benitez revealed a respect and admiration for Arsene Wenger, adding: "Wenger is a fantastic manager and he has brought a lot of good things to Arsenal and English football, and you must respect him a lot.

"Nobody is scared of each other, we just all have respect for each club."

Torres and Steven Gerrard have given Liverpool a tremendous boost in recent months as they have forced their way back into the Barclays Premier League top four and the last eight of the Champions League.

Ahead of the clash with the Gunners, Torres said: "I am pleased with the way I have settled in English football, it is important that I have good team-mates and a manager who can help me.

"Stevie has been a great help, he is one of the best players in the world and my understanding with him is easy.

He added: "It is the job of strikers to score goals, and I am doing my job. It is my first season, though, and I am surprised with how well it has gone."

Liverpool will have Javier Mascherano back in their side following his suspension at the weekend in the 1-0 win over Everton, and could have Alvaro Arbeloa also returning to the defence.