Nando: I'm no traitorr

Posted Saturday, February 05, 2011 by The Sun

FERNANDO TORRES last night insisted: I am no traitor.

The star Spanish striker has been slammed by a string of former Liverpool greats for his £50million move to Chelsea.

But Torres, who makes his Blues debut against his old club in a mouth-watering Stamford Bridge clash tomorrow, rapped: "I don't think it's fair to call me a traitor, though it's an opinion.

"I will never talk badly about any ex-Liverpool players or staff. They can say what they want. I think 'traitor' makes no sense. I had three very good seasons there, left massive money there, scored lots of goals and made good performances.

"I'm very happy with everything I did there.

"I understand it's a difficult situation but I have to think about my career as a footballer.

"It's a step forward, everyone agrees.

"In life, sometimes, there are trains that only come your way once and you have to take that train."

Torres claimed he had the full backing of his good friend and Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard, who twice turned down moves to Chelsea, over the stunning transfer.

He added: "Stevie was one of the first ones who called me and supported me.

"He has been a very good friend and team-mate. He only wanted the best for me and said he'd agree with any decision I made."

While Gerrard may have no hard feelings, Torres understands the Reds' fans do.

Visiting supporters at the Bridge are sure to be hostile.

Torres said: "Maybe it's too soon to ask for a good reception. I'm not expecting that.

"But it would be a surprise for me if I got a very bad reception from them.

"I'm sure they will eventually see what I did here and will think it was fair.

"But football is like this. People love you, then hate you."

Torres will not celebrate if he scores against his old club.

He declared: "First of all I have to play, after that I have to score. But I have big respect for Liverpool fans, so I don't think I will celebrate."