Credit where it's due

The Spanish goalador is sure to get much closer attention this season from Premier League opponents - but Keane's presence up front should ensure that a 'stop Torres, stop Liverpool' strategy does not become the simple mantra of Liverpool's opposition.

Bill Shankly once famously advised his number seven Kevin Keegan to just go out there and drop hand grenades all over the pitch. Rafa Benitez, as a student of the club's history, will likely offer similar advice to Keane. For the Liverpool supremo, the Irishman's 'game intelligence' was critical in his decision to bring him to Anfield and will be key in unshackling a more closely-policed Torres.

Funny stuff. As if clubs over the summer finally got around to looking at tape. "Hey, Liverpool seem to revolve around Torres. I sure wish we had realized that last season! This time we'll be ready."