Torres out for 3 weeks

Liverpool will be without the services of Fernando Torres for the next two to three weeks, as the Spanish striker races against time to be fit for the group stages of the Champions League.

Torres limped off the field during Liverpool's draw with Aston Villa, and tests later confirmed that the Spaniard had torn a hamstring during the match.

"A scan this afternoon has confirmed a hamstring tear in Fernando's right leg. He is expected to be out for between two and three weeks," Liverpool said in a statement on their website.

While the absence of Torres is likely to cause Liverpool coach Rafael Benitez some headaches on attack, he will be relieved that transfer of Albert Riera from Espanyol has gone through, adding solidity to the Liverpool flank.

"Riera has the qualities we were looking for," the Benitez told the Guardian. "He's a left-footer who normally plays on the left wing, he's good in the air, strong, powerful and a good crosser of the ball. He can talk English and of course he knows the Premier League, which is a big bonus. Usually foreign players need time when they go to a new country but Riera already knows the league and the style of football."