Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Torres Eager For Gerrard Reunion

Fernando Torres is relishing the return of Steven Gerrard to the Liverpool team tonight as the Reds go in search of the win which will secure their place in the knock-out phase of the Champions League.

Victory over Marseille would guarantee Rafael Benitez's men a place in the last sixteen, while they would also qualify with a draw if PSV Eindhoven fail to beat Atletico Madrid.

The return of Gerrard after a groin strain is a timely tonic for the Reds, who will be looking to bounce back from their frustrating goalless draw with Fulham at the weekend, and for Torres who is delighted to welcome his teammate back to action.

The pair have not been in the same starting eleven since the 3-2 win at Manchester City on October 5.

"I wanted to play for a club like Liverpool, where I could learn from players like Steven Gerrard, who I have always respected as a player and a leader," said Torres.

"A captain in England must lead by example. Steve Gerrard is someone everyone wants to be like – always the first at training, it is he who grafts the hardest in each exercise, who sacrifices himself during each match.

"You follow him blindly. Moreover, he is a star who decided to stay at Liverpool despite all the offers.

"It is a pleasure to receive the throughballs you get from Steven. He puts the ball where he wants, like Xavi (Hernandez) for the national team."

Torres, meanwhile, has also reiterated his love for both the club and the city of Liverpool as he embarks on the challenge of looking to replicate a stunning first season in English football.

"It isn’t easy to adapt but once you have, you would have trouble wanting to play anywhere else," he said.

"You go to play away at a team in the relegation zone and you find yourself playing on a perfect pitch, with the stands full to bursting and opponents who are there to play football.

"And even if they lose, the crowd are going to cheer them on until the death. You only see this in British football."

He added: "The club is a symbol of a city which fought to stay alive.

"Everyone is proud of the team. Players want to come here because they know that Liverpool is a truly great club.

"Anfield is the most English of all the grounds - people live and breathe football there.

"With just 45,000 fans there that roar they give makes you think you have wings on your feet."

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