Torres, who has netted 50 goals in 84 appearances since arriving from Atletico Madrid in 2007 has credited his manager and compatriot Benitez for his success so far at Anfield and after running United close in the title race, believes Liverpool can now challenge again for major honours.

He said: "Now we need to win the big trophies and we can trust Rafa Benitez to keep the momentum going for us. He is a great manager and has helped me improve so much in my time at Liverpool.

"I left Spain when I was still young, but my manager has helped me to mature."

The 25-year-old has formed a prolific partnership with Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard and Torres claims the Football Writers Association Football of the Year is one of the world’s best players.

He said: "When people talk about the best footballers in Europe, they always single out Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo, but Gerrard is just as strong.

"I’m spoilt having a teammate like Gerrard as I can count on him supplying me with perfect passes.

"You make the run into the space and however tightly marked he is, he finds a way to get the ball through.

"The highest compliment I can pay him is that he’s as creative as Xavi at Barcelona, with something extra as well.

"When you add his energy, toughness, leadership and goal scoring ability and the result is a fantastic all-round player."

Torres added: "Maybe I am biased because he is my team- mate and friend, but Stevie does not get the credit he deserves either in England or with European fans. This can change in 2010 when he has a chance to confirm his class with Liverpool and in the World Cup."

Meanwhile, Liverpool have again stressed their determination to keep Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano at Anfield.

Alonso has been linked with Real Madrid, who have not hidden their admiration for the Spain midfielder, and Argentinian Mascherano is reported to be a target of Barcelona.

Madrid’s young strikers Alvaro Negredo and Alberto Bueno have been suggested as makeweights in any possible deal for Alonso.

The club yesterday backed Benitez by indicating any approaches for the pair will be firmly rejected.

An official club statement read: "Despite repeated media speculation on the futures of Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano, Liverpool has received no official approach or offer from any club regarding the players.

"Neither is for sale and furthermore Liverpool has no interest in the long list of Spanish-based players being linked with a move to Anfield as part of any deal."