Fernando Torres says Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez can already be regarded as one of the club's greats.

Torres said: "I think he is more than just a manager. He is one of the greats in the club's history. That is how people feel about him and they are happy to show it, just as they did against Porto.

"We all had an idea that he was special here but, honestly, what I saw at Anfield was something else. The atmosphere was amazing. I am so impressed at how much he is loved by the people, above all, and even by the players.

"The great thing for me is that I feel their affection and the support they give my team-mates. With each passing day, I am feeling more a part of things and happier with everything and that is being reflected on the pitch.

"Because of everything that has been going on with Rafa this week, we needed the fans' backing more than ever, and they really got behind us. That sort of support is a gift for us all. It was especially good for Benitez because they showed how much they are behind him."