Fernando Torres: Does El Nino Have What It Takes?

Fernando Torres, aka "El Nino" to his fellow Spaniards, has his work cut out for him with Liverpool FC.

In the EPL, Atletico Madrid's ex-Golden Boy has the opportunity to prove his talent on one of the game's biggest stages. Though it's still early, and though Torres may well turn out to be the real deal...

To be honest, you'd expect more of a return on 25 million pounds.

There's no doubt that Torres was superb for Atletico, captaining the squad at 19 and scoring his share of goals along the way. He's also a full Spanish international player (although we're all aware of the Spanish team's reputation in big tournaments), with 15 goals in 44 appearances.

So how can a young lad with such grand ability come to the Premiership and then, after one brilliant game, squander countless opportunities against a side like Wigan?

As I understand it, football players are most valuable for their special abilities—Xabi Alonso is a wonderful passes, for example, and Ronaldinho is dead-ball specialist.

At the moment, I'm struggling to understand which specific skill Torres brings to Liverpool.

I do believe everybody deserves an opportunity, and no doubt Torres will get his. Still, I'd agree with Rafa Benitez when he says El Nino won't be guaranteed a place in the first team...especially after this performance against Wigan.

Pull your socks up, Torres—or pack your bags!

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