Rafa: Pair will boost title push

The pair combined to create an equaliser in Sunday's Cup derby following an audacious flick from Torres.

Benitez believes few players in world football could have pulled off such a move.

The Spaniard sees the goal as proof that last season's 53-goal partnership is ready to fire on all cylinders once more after a series of injuries.

He said: "We know the understanding between both was crucial last season and it will be again this season now they are back together again.

"In some games they can really push defenders with their skills. The goal they created was excellent against Everton in the Cup.

"The piece of skill from Torres to create the goal shows that he is getting very close to his best again.

"He showed that the understanding between him and Gerrard will be crucial for us for the rest of the season.

"What he did to send Gerrard away is something you do not see from many players. He certainly needed a good runner to get on the end of it.

"Fernando also needed to be aware of where Gerrard was, to see him and to find him with the ball. It was certainly something very special."