Torres believes in Liverpool chances

It is a measure of how quickly Fernando Torres has settled at Liverpool FC that he was prepared to chat with reporters in English before the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg against Arsenal FC.

Team player
His command of the language may not be as slick as his finishing, but judging by the 24-year-old's confidence it will be soon enough. Torres has not just grasped the basics of the language, he also knows what to say to adhere himself to team-mates and supporters alike – if the 28 goals he has scored since signing from Club Atlético de Madrid last summer were not enough. "The important thing is winning trophies, that's what motivates me," he said. "It's more important to do things for the team and for the team to have success. Personal goals and personal success are secondary."

Prolific form
Carry on like this and he could be enjoying plenty of both. Already he is the first Liverpool player since Robbie Fowler in 1995/96 to reach 20 Premier League goals in a season. His 21st won Sunday's Merseyside derby against Everton FC, his tenth strike in eight games. Torres has also found his feet in the UEFA Champions League, scoring four times in six matches, including an instinctive turn and finish to defeat FC Internazionale Milano in the first knockout round second leg. Pitting his wits against the best defences in Europe is a challenge he relishes, saying: "Every footballer wants to play in the Champions League and to play in important games like at the San Siro and like at Arsenal."

Fabregas reunion
Against Arsenal, he will come up against another blossoming talent from Spain in Cesc Fabregas. The 20-year-old midfielder burst on to the English scene in similar style three seasons ago, and Torres is looking forward to catching up with his international colleague. "I will speak to him. Fabregas is a fantastic player but it is not only about Cesc Fabregas. Arsenal have very good players but we do as well. Arsenal are very strong at home but we have our chances."

Gerrard partnership
Liverpool's chances will depend largely on how much time on the ball Torres and Steven Gerrard are allowed. The pair have struck up a prolific partnership with the forward thriving on the service provided by the England midfielder. "Stevie is one of the best players in the world and the understanding with him is easy. I'm enjoying playing with Stevie." Safe to say the feeling is mutual.