Anfield salute from Spain hero - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Anfield salute from Spain hero

Fernando Torres believes Liverpool have turned him into a European champion.

The Spain striker, who scored the goal against Germany in Vienna which decided the Euro 2008 final, has paid tribute to Liverpool and the club's fans for their part in his success story.

"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," he told 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.

"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."

Torres, 24, added: "This is a dream come true and now we have a place in European history so it is very special.

"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."

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