Spain striker Fernando Torres has admitted his gratitude to Liverpool after winning Euro 2008.
Euro 2008 hero thanks Reds
Spain striker Fernando Torres has admitted his gratitude to Liverpool after winning Euro 2008.
The striker hit the only goal of the game as Spain defeated Germany in Sunday night's European Championship final to end a 44-year wait for international silverware for his country.
And Torres believes Liverpool, who he joined last summer in a record-breaking transfer from Atletico Madrid, have provided him with the self-belief required to succeed at international level.
Torres has often been criticised for not producing the goods for Spain but, after turning match-winner in Vienna at the weekend, the 24-year-old feels his 33-goal haul for Liverpool last season has aided his development.
Improve
"I have had a wonderful first season at Anfield and the 33 goals I scored for Liverpool gave me the confidence and belief I needed for the European finals," Torres said in the
Liverpool Echo.
"And I would like to thank the manager Rafa Benitez and his staff because I have improved as a player thanks to them.
"But it is not just the people at the club who have helped me, it is also the supporters and the people of the city.
"From the moment I first came to Liverpool I have been made to feel welcome and that is why I am able to enjoy my football so much.
Incredible
"It is incredible. The Liverpool fans have given me so much support and I know that they have even been supporting Spain and this is something I will never forget and I thank everyone for that.
"Now I am looking forward to competing for trophies with Liverpool because I know that means so much to the club and the fans."
And Torres is hopeful he can replicate his international success with Liverpool next season.
"It is my first major title but I hope it will be the first of many because I want to win many more titles with Liverpool and Spain," added Torres.
