Torres on bench at Preston

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres could make his return to first team action this afternoon as the Reds take on Preston North End in the third round of the F.A. Cup.

Rafa Benitez names a strong line-up, although keeper Diego Cavalieri is given a rare outing with Pepe Reina given a rest.

Defender Martin Skrtel also features amongst Liverpool’s substitutes. The Slovakian international has been injured since October.

Liverpool: Cavalieri, Insua, Carragher, Hyypia, Agger, Babel, Riera, Alonso, Mascherano, Gerrard, Keane. Subs: Reina, Torres, Aurelio, Lucas, Ngog, El Zhar, Skrtel.