Carragher praise for Torres

Carragher: Praise for Torres

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Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher heaped praise on man of the match and hat-trick hero Fernando Torres after they beat Reading 4-2 in the Carling Cup.

The Spaniard caused the Reading defence problems all night and rounded off a fine display with a late goal to secure his treble.

"He's won us the game," Carragher told Sky Sports. "It was a tight game, a very difficult game but he's made the difference.

"Some great finishes but it's not just his goals, it's his all round work for the team."

The defender played a big part in the game with a strong performance at the back, and has revealed he enjoyed being involved in the fast-paced cup tie.

"It was a good game to play in. It was a typical cup tie," he said. "Reading gave their all."

No guarantees

Despite Torres' three goals in the game, which doubles his tally for the Reds, manager Rafael Benitez refused to guarantee the Spaniard will start against Wigan at the weekend.

"During the week we have good strikers and I think I'll have to think about it," he said. "It was a terrific game (for Torres). I think he can kill the defenders."

Benitez was pleased with the character shown by his side after twice being pegged back by Reading.

"It was a difficult game. We played against good team with a lot of passion, there was a high tempo.

"Both (Reading) goals were offside. It was important, we needed to show character. They showed the character we want in the club.

"You need to learn if you work hard you have a chance and as a manager you just have confidence in your players."