[Mighty T.A.L.]

Rafa calls for Torres protection

Rafa Benitez wants to see record signing Fernando Torres receive more protection from referees.

The Spain international was the victim of some over physical challenges during the 4-2 Carling Cup win over Reading and the Reds boss believes it's time for officials to take action against it.

"What puzzles me is why people are talking all the time about Torres and when he plays, when they should surely be talking about how we can protect him when he plays," said Benitez.

"There was lots of talk about how Torres coped so well with the kicking he received, but why aren't people saying that kicking was wrong?

"I'm surprised people aren't talking about the need to protect players of quality, because if we want to see exciting matches with real quality for the fans, then we must ensure the quality players are allowed to play, and not kicked out of it.

"With Torres, defenders feel they have to stop him by kicking him, and it's up to the officials to stop that.

"I won't comment on the referee at Reading, but you could see for yourself. He was kicked badly in the first minute. It was a challenge that could have kept him out for a month."

Source: Liverpoolfc.tv: Official Web Site