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Liverpool's Fernando Torres and Stevie Gerrard celebrate - Source: Reuters -
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Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has said his side have the quality to cope without star duo Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres at Sunderland this weekend.
Liverpool face Steve Bruce's highflying side, who recently held Manchester United to a draw at Old Trafford, without the influential pair who both picked up knocks during the international break.
But even though Torres, who is the Premier League's current top goalscorer, and skipper Gerrard are out, Benitez still believes the side can grab a win.
"We can win without them," Benitez told reporters.
"We have good players in the squad who can come in, but we must show spirit and character now to overcome the problem.
"There are players who have been training well and waiting for their opportunity. Well now it has come and they can take their chance."
Gerrard's injury is reportedly not as serious as first thought, while Torres has suffered some groin pain, but Benitez is hopeful the pair will be fit for the sides crucial midweek Champions League clash and visit from Manchester United next weekend.
"Both Steven and Fernando still have some problems,"
"They will need more time and won't be available this weekend. I think they could be available for next week.
With the loss of the two players Dirk Kuyt is expected to lead the front line after Benitez confirmed the Netherlands star is fit to start.
"Kuyt is okay. He was training normally with the team and will be available."
There was also some good news concerning Greek defender Sotirios Kyrgiakos, who will only be sidelined for days, rather than months after a scan confirmed he had not sustained knee ligament damage.
