Fernando Torres an early Merseyside derby doubt

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres is an early injury doubt ahead of a massive Merseyside derby against Everton.

Torres limped out of Sunday's 2-1 defeat to Blackpool with a fresh adductor muscle problem.

The Spain striker was troubled by a similar injury during the World Cup finals and has already pulled out of the upcoming Euro 2012 qualifiers against Lithuania and Scotland.

He could now miss the trip to Goodison Park on October 17, although the Reds are remaining coy on the extent of his latest injury.

"Fernando was assessed earlier today at Melwood and underwent a scan this afternoon," head of sports medicine and sports science, Dr Peter Brukner, told the club's official website.

"He will have intensive treatment over the next couple of weeks but it is too early to say if he will be fit for the game against Everton."

Liverpool make the short trip across Stanley Park in desperate need of three points following their worst start to a season since 1953-54.

They have picked up just six points from the first 21 on offer and find themselves in the relegation places after seven games.Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email