SoccerNews.com

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard failed to recover from a groin injury in time for Sunday’s crucial Premier League match against Manchester United, but striker Fernando Torres was fit to start.

Gerrard had been forced off during Tuesday’s Champions League defeat to Lyon and wasn’t able to make a full recovery for the Anfield clash.

The England midfielder wasn’t even on the bench, but Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez was boosted by Torres’s presence as the Spain striker came back from a groin problem.

Liverpool right-back Glen Johnson was also passed fit to start as the hosts tried to avoid a fifth successive defeat.

Manchester United welcomed back Wayne Rooney and Ryan Giggs after the pair missed Wednesday’s Champions League win over CSKA Moscow. Former Liverpool striker Michael Owen was on the bench for the champions.

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