Reds facing defensive headache ahead of United clash

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers could be without new signings Kolo Toure and Aly Cissokho for Sunday’s visit of Manchester United.

The defensive pair both went off injured during Tuesday evening’s League Cup clash with Notts County, a game which the Reds won after extra-time.

Martin Skrtel is in contention to start having recovered from a knee problem, while Joe Allen (hamstring) will be assessed closer to kick off.

Meanwhile, with time running out in the transfer window, reports in Portugal have linked the club with a return for Chelsea striker Fernando Torres, the Metro understands.

The Spain international moved to Stamford Bridge for £50m two and a half years ago, and whilst having a fairly successful campaign last time around, has largely disappointed.

The 29 year old has only played a bit part in Chelsea’s opening three games this season under Jose Mourinho, having been substituted against Hull City, not featuring at all against Aston Villa and coming on late against Manchester United on Monday.

The Blues this week brought in Cameroon international Samuel Eto’o, a move which is set to push Torres further down the pecking order.

Elsewhere, Liverpool are reportedly closing in on Dynamo Kyiv striker Andriy Yarmolenko, according to the Daily Star.

The Reds have reportedly made an offer close to £20m for the Ukraine international, who is odds on with the bookmakers to complete a switch to Anfield.