Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas has said that he believes that Fernando Torres has returning to his old self. Fernando Torres has been the subject of many ridicules recently, as he has struggled for both form and fitness since this £ 50 million move from Liverpool last January.
So far, he is yet to get into double figures when it comes to scoring and has largely been used as the substitute in favour of Didier Drogba. However, he will be getting his major chance to impress new manager Andre Villas-Boas when Didier Drogba heads out to the African cup of nations.
Chelsea will be playing a number of Premier League fixtures and FA Cup fixtures during this period. Fernando Torres will be getting the maximum opportunities during this period, as especially both Didier Drogba and Salomon Kalou will be unavailable for Andre Villas-Boas. Further, Nicolas Anelka has also been sold, which leaves Daniel Sturridge as the only fit experienced striker in the squad. Of course, Andre Villas-Boas can also rely on the services of £18 million signing Lukaku, but he’s someone who is destined for the future of Chelsea and not for the present.
It was thought that the arrival of Mata would wake up Fernando Torres from his slumber, but it has not happened that way, although Mata has been quite exceptional since arriving from Valencia. Mata was signed for less than half the amount it cost to sign Fernando Torres from Liverpool, but he has already scored more league goals and provided more assists, despite being used as a winger. The same applies for Daniel Sturridge as well, who has grown in leaps and bounds this season. Fernando Torres will be having a real struggle if he fails to perform during this month, when he will be getting at least eight first team opportunities.