Benitez expects Torres to get back on track

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has backed Spain striker Fernando Torres to rediscover his goal touch in today's match at West Ham.

Torres admitted yesterday that he is playing at less than 100 per cent after a draining close-season spent representing his country at the Confederations Cup.

The former Atletico Madrid star has scored three times in Liverpool's six matches so far this season, but even Benitez concedes his performances have been lacklustre at times.

"Fernando is not at his best, although he is trying very hard. But he can play better and he knows this. That is positive because he realises and I am confident in him," Benitez said yesterday.

"He is much more positive, he is working with the rest of the players and creating space for them. We will soon see the very best from him.

"Our players are starting to find their form, Dirk Kuyt is scoring, Yossi Benayoun is scoring, and we have started well in Europe.

"It is only a matter of time before Fernando starts to score more regularly.

"We have plenty of options now, most of our players are fit so the choice is good for me when you have more players available.

"When our top scorer starts scoring more regularly, then we will have a very strong side to put into any game.

"But I am not worried about Fernando. He was very positive in the Champions League match (against Debrecen), making space and chances for others, and if he can keep doing that will be fine for me."