Reina’s contract was ended until 2012. Still talking about brand-new contract with the club between Pepe underway.

Torres said that Pepe had an important role either inside or outside the field. “Pepe is an important player in the locker room, after Stevie (Gerrard) and Carra (Jamie Carragher). He always showed excitement around us, not only in the field but also in the locker room,” said Torres.

“He has followed a remarkable season. We should be happy because we have it and we hope that Pepe could any longer here,” he concluded.

Leaders Liverpool have a five point lead over third-placed United, but the Manchester side have two games in hand.

“They are the favourites and the champions right now and have shown over the years they are a very powerful team,” said the 24-year-old Spaniard.

“They have two more games to play. If they catch up they will be top.”

Torres, who was one of the nominees for the Fifa Player of the Year title, won by United’s Cristiano Ronaldo, said his side’s match at Old Trafford on 14 March could decide the destination of the title.

“We know we have Old Trafford waiting for us and then Arsenal and Chelsea at home – we have to fight until the very end,” added the forward.

“The match at Old Trafford could turn out to be the decider and we hope we can be on an equal footing when we go there and try to win the match at a place that has not been advantageous for us in the past.”

United are at home to Wigan on Wednesday before travelling to Bolton next Saturday.

Wins would see Sir Alex Ferguson’s side gain the advantage in the title race with Liverpool not playing their next match until Monday 19 January when they host the derby against Everton.

BBC Sport