Torres itching to get back into soccer action

Fernando Torres has had barely three weeks away from football but that is enough for the Spanish striker who is itching to get back into action.

After Liverpool finished second in the Premier League Torres jetted to South Africa to play for his country at the Confederations Cup, where he scored the fastest hat-trick by a Spanish player.

It meant he had less time off-duty than others, but the 25-year-old is now focused on his pre-season preparations and wants to get more time on the clock after appearing for only 10 minutes against Thailand on Wednesday.

Manager Rafael Benitez is carefully managing his top asset, but he should get a game against Singapore on Sunday as they wrap up the Asian leg of their pre-season tour.

“Whatever Rafa thinks is best is fine for me,” said Torres.

“I am feeling good and want to get to 100 percent as soon as possible.

“It’s difficult to return to training in this weather and this heat. We are tired and stiff but we still have one month before the season starts so there is time to be ready.”

With Steven Gerrard in court on affray charges back in Liverpool, Torres is the star attraction for fans in Asia and he has been overwhelmed by the attention.

“It’s important for us to come to Asia to see our amazing fans,” he said.

“It was really nice to hear them singing my name and to see so many fans with my shirt on at our last game. It makes me really proud.

“I’m not surprised how big Liverpool are out here but I am surprised how popular I am. I have to thank Liverpool for making me that player.”

Torres, who recently signed an improved contract, insisted on Thursday that the Reds can win the Premier League this season.

“I came to Liverpool to win trophies and it’s been two years without one which is a long time for Liverpool,” he said.

“But I’m sure we can win the Premier League or the Champions League.”