Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has praised the contribution that Fernando Torres makes to the side - and not only in a goalscoring sense.
Despite the hefty price tag, few could argue against Fernando Torres thus far proving Liverpool's most successful summer signing.
The 23-year-old has already netted 11 times for the Reds even though he has been used sparingly by coach Rafa BenÃtez.
A firm favourite with the Kop just a few months after moving from Spain, Torres has also earned the respect of Anfield skipper Steven Gerrard.
"Fernando is getting a lot of praise at the moment and rightly so because the way he has settled into English football has been amazing and the way he has played is frightening," Gerrard told the Liverpool Echo.
"It can be difficult for players from abroad to settle into English football but at the moment Fernando looks like he's been playing here for years.
Everyone is talking about the goals he has scored and the way he has scored them but I don't think we should lose sight of all the hard work he is putting in off the ball as well.
He defends from the front and doesn't allow defenders to have a second on the ball. If they even think of dwelling on it he is on to them straight away. He is always looking to help the midfielders and the defenders and that makes a big difference. I've got to be honest, I'm made up to have him in our team."
With the likes of Crouch and Kuyt spearheading the attack for the majority of last season, Liverpool were often criticised for lacking pace up front. Gerrard agrees that Torres' pace and skill in running at defences is a useful weapon.
"It is great to have someone who gives us that different option. Fernando loves running in behind defenders and that gives us the option of hitting him early before defences have even had a chance to react. He's had a great start to his career and long may it continue."
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