Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has had a change of heart and decided that Fernando Torres will not be fit for the Reds' clash against Blackburn at Ewood Park, having failed to recover from his groin injury.

It comes less than 24 hours after the Spaniard was talking up the 'El Nino's chances of playing some part at the weekend, but has now backtracked, explaining that the game will come too soon for the 25-year-old.

Torres, the club's top scorer this season with 10 goals, has been back in training this week after missing the Reds' last four matches, and may be ready for his side's meaningless UEFA Champions League fixture with Fiorentina next week.

"He has been training with the team - not full training sessions but part of them," Benitez told the club's official website.

"He's doing well but he will not be ready for this game. He could be ready for Fiorentina. He was doing some exercises with the team and with the football but it's too soon.

"Maybe next week it will be easier."