It would have been inconceivable when he despatched the goal
that secured Spain's first-ever major title two years ago, but
Fernando Torres has been forced to consider his right to a starting
place for tonight's World Cup semi-final with Germany in
Durban.
The Germans had no answer to his pace when he settled the Euro
2008 final in a manner confirming his status as a top finisher.
As the teams prepared to meet again, the Liverpool striker faced
the threat of being left out after clear signs that fitness
problems have taken their toll on his form.
Sweating on his place: Torres has underperformed so far this
World Cup
Big decision: Spain coach Vicente del Bosque (left) must
decide whether to drop the striker
A Cesc Fabregas leg injury may yet grant him a reprieve, but
Torres knows his place is in jeopardy.
'No player is assured of a place in the starting XI,' he said.
'A player has to give 100 per cent in his fight for a place, and if
he isn't given the nod by the boss, he has to cheer on the team
from the sidelines. If I score against Germany and it takes us to
the final, that would be unbelievable. I hope history can be
repeated, but I hope we win.'
Spain manager Vicente del Bosque said: 'Tomorrow we will know
who will be in the starting XI. We'll play with those who we
believe will be the most important and well suited to the
occasion.'
Germany boss Joachim Low played down suggestions of discord
after stand-in skipper Philipp Lahm said he wanted to continue in
the role, even if injured captain Michael Ballack returns to
international duty.
Low said: 'Lahm spoke honestly - and we have freedom of speech -
but he knows it is the coach's decision after the World
Cup.'
