Real mauling puts Torres in mood for United

Fernando Torres believes Liverpool can build on the momentum created by last night's impressive victory over Real Madrid and blow the title race wide open when they face Manchester United on Saturday.

Torres made a dramatic return from an ankle injury at Anfield, scoring the opening goal in a 4-0 victory that sent Liverpool into the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

The Spanish striker needed an injection to play the game but insists he will be fit for a Premier League clash at Old Trafford this weekend — which is good news not only for the Reds but also for Chelsea.

Both teams need a Liverpool victory at Old Trafford to haul leaders United back into the pack and Torres says confidence is high.

"It was a big night for Liverpool," he said. "We have a massive game against Manchester United next and we have confidence now. I hope to win to give us more chance to win the title. It's very important to win there because otherwise Man U will be a lot of points ahead. We'll see what happens but we're confident we can win." Torres hailed the part played by manager Rafa Benitez in the victory over Real, which was completed by two goals from Steven Gerrard — one a penalty and one a superb volley — and a late fourth from substitute Andreas Dossena.

He said: "The plan was to play with intensity, at a high tempo because Spanish football is slower than English football and we knew playing with a high tempo would hurt the opponent."

Torres admitted to feeling pain when he left the field after 83 minutes but re-assured fans he would be ready for the game at Old Trafford.

He added: "It's feeling a bit painful but that doesn't matter after a night like that. I hope I will be fit. I will work until the game to be ready."