Get the Echo newsletter - it has never been more important to stay informed Sign me up now Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

LIVERPOOL face an agonising 48-hour wait to discover the extent of the hamstring injury suffered by World Cup winner Fernando Torres.

The Reds’ striker pulled up sharply moments after he had played a part in the build up to Andres Iniesta’s winning goal against Holland in Johannesburg’s Soccer City last night.

It was initially feared that Torres would face a lengthy lay-off, as the television images showed him in tears and beating the ground in frustration.

However, he was able to take part in Spain’s celebrations – he even posed with a Liverpool scarf draped over his shoulders – and it is understood he walked out of Soccer City briskly, without any need for assistance.

With Spain flying back to Madrid for a glorious homecoming, Liverpool were not expecting to hear from either Spain’s medical staff or Torres today.

Torres is now officially on a three-week break from the club, along with the other players who were involved in the dramatic conclusion to the 19th World Cup final.

While there was joy for Torres and Pepe Reina, the emotions experienced by Dutch pair Dirk Kuyt and Ryan Babel were of complete despair; Kuyt – who was substituted with 20 minutes left of normal time – was “devastated” that his dream of becoming a World Champion had ended in such fashion.

Kuyt – who had enjoyed a fine individual tournament – at least made a point of embracing both Reina and Torres, as the Dutch side formed a guard of honour for the Spanish as they made the their way back on to the pitch with the trophy.

There was also complete despair for Everton’s representative in the World Cup final – John Heitinga was sent off for a second bookable offence in extra time.