Liverpool striker Fernando Torres is almost certain to miss the club's home fixture with Manchester City this Saturday.

The Spain international has been struggling with a groin injury in recent times, forcing him to miss his country's win over Argentina on the weekend and it seems he will get up for City's visit to Anfield.

"Fernando Torres is training with the physios, so I don't think he'll be available," Reds boss Rafael Benitez told the club's official website.

Torres is expected to return for the Merseyside derby against Everton next weekend but the Reds will be boosted by the potential return of captain Steven Gerrard as well as some others this week.

"(Daniel) Agger is okay. He had a small problem with his back but he's training," Benitez added. "It was a very good decision from Denmark's manager (to withdraw Agger) because he is much better now. I think he'll be okay for the weekend.

"(Glen) Johnson has been training. Not full sessions, but training, so hopefully he'll be okay for the weekend too.

"Gerrard is doing well. He finished a full training session today, so if he can carry on then he'll be okay as well."