Liverpool face Championship League side Reading in the third round proper of the FA Cup on January 2nd, kick-off at 17.15 hours (GMT) in the opening game of the New Year. Fernando Torres goes into the cup clash on the back of a record-breaking achievement in Liverpool’s last outing of 2009. The attacker scored the only goal of the game away to Aston Villa with a strike in the 93rd minute. The dramatic late goal was Torres’ 50th in the league for Liverpool in just 72 appearances, setting a new club record.

The match away to the Berkshire club will no doubt bring back fond memories for Liverpool striker. Torres hit his first hat-trick for Liverpool against Reading at the Madejski Stadium. The two teams met in the Carling Cup (September 26, 2007), with the Spaniard’s treble helping his side to a 4-2 win.

The Merseysiders have won four of their five meetings with Reading. The last visit back in December 2007 ended in defeat for Rafa Benitez’s side. The Royals beat Liverpool 3-1 thanks to goals from Stephen Hunt, Kevin Doyle and James Harper. Anfield club captain Steve Gerrard scored the visitor's consolation goal.

Reading are currently struggling in the Championship in 20th place. The Royals are just two points above relegation having played one game more than their closest rivals. The Royals, who have won just five times in the league so far this season, have collected 23 points from 24 matches played.

The FA Cup has becomes one of Liverpool’s main objectives for the 2009/10 season. The knock-out tournament is one of the Reds two most realistic chances of silverware this campaign (along with the Europa League).

The Merseysiders will be looking to go as far as possible in the oldest cup tournament in football, and come Sunday the Reds hope to be in the hat for the draw for the fourth round.