Fernando Torres has demanded Liverpool treat the FA Cup seriously (Liverpool 6/1 FA Cup – Outright) and believes winning the famous old domestic competition would represent a successful season.

The Merseysiders, out of the Champions League and off the pace if the race for a top-four Premier League place, face Reading (Liverpool 1/5 draw 11/2 Reading 12/1 – FA Cup match betting) in an FA Cup third-round replay at Anfield on Wednesday.

Rafael Benitez has challenged his players to give the competition the respect it merits and Spain striker Torres is in no doubt winning the FA Cup could be the catalyst Liverpool require to get back among the Premier League powerhouses.

He said: “In this country it is the most important trophy after the title. If we won it then we would play in the Community Shield.

“Winning gives you the chance to get more honours and that should always be our aim.”

Kop favourite Torres says securing a coveted Champions League spot for next season has to be the priority for Liverpool – but not at the expense of wining the FA Cup.

He added: “Of course we want to finish in the top four too. If we could do that and win the cup, it would be the best season we’ve had for the last three or four years.”

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