Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has revealed that Fernando Torres is still not fully fit but will be on the bench for Thursday’s Europa League last-32 second leg clash with Unirea Urziceni (Unirea 7/2, Liverpool 3/4, draw 13/5 Midweek Euro Coupon) in case of an emergency.

The 25-year-old Spanish international, who has been absent for five weeks following knee surgery, played in the final 15 minutes of Sunday’s goalless draw at Manchester City.

However Benitez is refusing to rush him back for the Unirea clash in Romania on Thursday, despite only holding a 1-0 advantage from the first leg at Anfield, because he does not want to risk losing him for the Premier League run-in as the Reds continue their fight for fourth spot at home to Blackburn on Sunday (Liverpool 1/3, Blackburn 7/1, draw 16/5 90 Minutes).

“We knew we could use him against City. The idea was for 15-20 minutes but still he is not ready,” said Benitez.

“He needs match fitness and has to play and train, and we will see later on how he is coming along.

“He was doing very well with the physios and fitness coach. He is really happy.

“We decided to put him in the squad (against City) because he was training well last Friday. Now he can carry on and progress. He will be ready soon.”

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