Fernando Torres says his Spanish international team-mate
Cesc Fabregas convinced him to move to the Premier
League.
Torres, who joined Liverpool from Atletico Madrid for £20million,
spoke to the Arsenal midfielder at length before committing himself
to Anfield.
"Cesc has triumphed at Arsenal and, after speaking to him several
times, I thought to myself: 'Why can't I repeat my experience?'
Torres told the News of the World.
"He (Fabregas) told me the key is not to get desperate if things go
against me.
"I understand the first few months at Anfield will not be easy but
I'm determined to overcome every obstacle."
Ironically, Torres could have joined Fabregas at Arsenal.
He revealed: "After winning the European Junior Championship in
1999, my name was linked with the big clubs. Offers came in,
including one from Arsenal, but at the time I was happy to stay
with Atletico."
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez revealed Torres chose Liverpool in
spite of bigger offers being made for the Spanish striker.
But Torres has confirmed money was not the deciding factor in his
move to Anfield.
"My choice was not down to money. This is a personal challenge. I
have signed for six seasons and my desire is to play here for the
six."
Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry believes the capture of Torres
is proof of the club's strength in the transfer market.
"This (signing) says we are still here, in contention for the
biggest names," Parry told the Sunday Mirror.
"If you want to win titles, you have to go for top quality. There
aren't that many top-quality strikers around, particularly (aged)
23.
Fernando has committed to six years and that could be six very
exciting years for him and us. We still have one or two more
targets to go at."