Torres out until the New Year

The Spanish striker picked up a hamstring injury in the game with Marseille, and it was initially believed he would be out for a maximum of three weeks.

This latest news means he would not only miss this weekend's game with Blackburn and the Champions League clash with PSV Eindhoven, but also the games against Hull City, Arsenal, Bolton and Newcastle United.

"He will come back when he's ready, we will not rush him back," said Rafa Benitez.