Rafael Benitez has again explained why he didn’t sign Michael Owen in the summer.

The former Liverpool idol was available on a free transfer following his release from Newcastle United, and he was keen to make a return to the Anfield club.

However, Benitez snubbed the chance to sign Owen, who then upset his former followers by signing for archrivals and champions Manchester United.

"We decided that we had Fernando Torres,” said the Spaniard. “After that you look for players who could replace him and we have Ryan Babel, Dirk Kuyt and David N’Gog.”

Owen, meanwhile, has endured an average season at Old Trafford, and a hamstring injury suffered in the Carling Cup final means he will not feature again until next term.

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