RAFAEL BENITEZ will use his close ties to the Spanish national team to insist on a gradual return to action for Fernando Torres as he prepares to adopt an identical policy with the striker at Liverpool, reports Andy Hunter.

Reports in Spain yesterday claimed Torres will be named in Vicente del Bosque’s squad for the friendly against France in Paris on March 3rd after returning from a five-week injury lay-off as a substitute against Manchester City.

Benitez intends to phase the return of a striker who, as well as requiring knee surgery has also been hampered by a hernia problem this season.