Liverpool striker Fernando Torres is facing an international headache over Spain's involvement in this summer's Confederations Cup.

Liverpool are desperate for their £21million striker to sit out the event and enjoy a prolonged rest after a string of injuries hampered his second season at Anfield.

But Torres is a certainty to be picked for the FIFA tournament in June. A Kop source told the News of the World: "The Confederations Cup is the last thing Fernando needs this summer. It means he won't get the long holiday and rest he needs.

"No one will try to stop Fernando playing in the competition but everyone hopes he'll make a sensible decision if he's not fully fit."