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Premier League

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres is unlikely to be fit enough to face Manchester City at Anfield on Saturday.

The talismanic Torres has been training with club physios rather than the rest of the squad this week, raising fears that this weekend's game may be too soon for the hitman to make his comeback.

There was better injury news for the Reds though as far as Daniel Agger, Glen Johnson and, crucially, captain Steven Gerrard were concerned.

"Agger is okay," manager Rafa Benitez told his club's official website. "He had a small problem with his back but he's training. It was a very good decision from Denmark's manager [to withdraw Agger] because he is much better now. I think he'll be okay for the weekend.

"Johnson has been training. Not full sessions, but training, so hopefully he'll be okay for the weekend too.

"Gerrard is doing well. He finished a full training session today, so if he can carry on then he'll be okay as well.

"Fernando Torres is training with the physios, so I don't think he'll be available."

Albert Riera and Yossi Benayoun (both hamstring) were also beginning their recoveries in positive fashion, according to Benitez.

"I was talking about four weeks [initially] but they are working hard with the physios and doing special treatments," he added.

"We have to check but maybe they'll be back earlier than expected."

Meanwhile, Benitez also sympathized with the plight of Fabio Aurelio, who had been unable to answer a call-up to the Brazil squad because of a calf injury.

"It's a pity because he was waiting for this call for a long time, then when he got the opportunity he had a problem," said the Spaniard.

"He's improving but still has a little bit of a problem with his calf. It will be difficult for him to play against Man City."