Fernando Torres ruled out for three weeks

Oct 29 2007

Liverpool FC's Fernando Torres celebrates _180

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres has been ruled out for three weeks with an adductor injury, the club confirmed today.

Midfielder Xabi Alonso is also facing a spell on the sidelines after an X-ray revealed he had fractured the fourth metatarsal in his left foot.

Both players were injured in the 1-1 draw against Arsenal yesterday along with Javier Mascherano.

However the midfielder has suffered only extensive bruising and no bone injury.

A Liverpool spokesman said: "A scan this morning has shown a tear to a different adductor muscle to his original injury and we expect Fernando to be out for about three weeks.

On Alonso, he said: “An x-ray showed a fracture to the fourth metatarsal in his left foot. Xabi will be seen by a consultant tomorrow after which we will have a much better idea of the timescales involved.

On Mascherano, he said: “He had an x-ray which has showed no bone injury, but he will receive intensive treatment on extensive bruising in his foot.”

Losing Torres and Alonso are major blows for manager Rafael Benitez with a hectic programme of domestic and crucial Champions League games to come.

Liverpool need a victory against Besiktas at Anfield next week if they are to progress in Europe’s top club competition.

Either side of that match they face Blackburn and Fulham in the Premier League.

The Spanish coach’s options are limited as he is also without winger Jermaine Pennant until after Christmas as he recovers from a stress fracture of the shin.