Torres: We must be strong early

Chelsea’s Fernando Torres believes his side need to replicate Manchester City’s early form from last season to have a chance in the title race.

Chelsea sit top of the table with two wins from two after beating Wigan and Reading but they face their first big test of the season when they host Newcastle on Saturday.

Robert Mancini’s side enjoyed a blistering start to last term on their way to the title and Torres is keen to replicate that form at Stamford Bridge this year.

“We can’t lose early points because Manchester City showed last season that they didn’t lose many. We need to start well,” the Spaniard told the London Evening Standard.

“It’s always important to begin well and look at the table to see Chelsea at the top. Nine points in the first three games is a target we should have.

“It is important after eight to 10 games for the team to still be at the top because it means that is your position more or less.”

Torres insisted Chelsea must prioritise a top-four finish while aiming to mount a title challenge after a disappointing sixth-place finish last time around.

“We need to realise that the Champions League is not easy to win every year so the first step is to be in the top four – that is a normal thing for Chelsea,” he said.

“Now we have to look at the title. If you are thinking of first place you can finish there, second or third but if you’re just looking at being in the top four, then you can be out.”