Soccer:Fernando Torres has been ruled out of Liverpool's Champions League clash with Lyon at Anfield, but skipper Steven Gerrard is back to lead the side in a match the Reds dare not lose if they are to retain a realistic chances of reaching the last 16.

Torres missed Saturday's defeat at Sunderland with a groin injury, and did not train on Monday at Liverpool's Melwood complex.

Gerrard, who also missed the 1-0 defeat at the Stadium of Light, did train and will take his place against the French side.

Boss Rafael Benitez said: "Gerrard is now fine, he has trained normally today and will play against Lyon.

"But Fernando is not close enough to fitness to be considered. He will miss this one but I hope he will be OK to play against Manchester United next weekend."

Benitez is now hoping a fit-again Gerrard can lead Liverpool out of the slump that has seen them lose three games in succession, including their last Champions League encounter at Fiorentina.

Meaningful involvement in both the Premier League and Europe is now under threat and boss Benitez is fully aware of the importance of a victory at Anfield on Tuesday against Group E leaders.

Liverpool face back-to-back clashes with Lyon, as well as a visit from champions Manchester United over the next fortnight.

He said: "With Steven around, it has an effect on the other players. He is an inspiration to them.

"Steven is a winner with the right mentality. But we have to see these players on the pitch, they cannot win games when they are injured.

"The team knows we are not playing at the right level, but they also know that we are good enough.

"They know we must start playing again at that level, their response in training has been positive and we must repeat that on the pitch. One good result will change everything.

"I am confident in my team, we are trying to improve and the response of the players this week has been very good and back to our best."