Fernando Torres Will Be Walking a Fine Line In Sunday's Showdown

Following the largest transfer fee in British football history, Fernando Torres has finally donned the blue colours of Chelsea; but at what cost?

No, I am not referring to the cost facing Russian oil magnate Roman Abramovich. After all, the oil industry is booming, and the £50 million spent to acquire the services of Torres can be covered within weeks. I am referring to the prospects facing the Spaniard himself. 

With Liverpool in the process of a timely resurgence under the management of King Kenny Dalglish, Torres has somewhat ill-timely broken ranks with them, a club that had stuck with the player through thick and thin throughout his career at Merseyside.

On Sunday, Torres will be making his debut for Chelsea against his former club before a 42,000 strong crowd at Stamford Bridge. Had it been Anfield, Torres would have a torrid time to say the least. The minute Torres sets foot on the pitch, it is inevitable the striker will be the subject of ferocious jeers from every Red-clad spectator present on the stands.

Torres has further mounted anger amongst Liverpool supporters by saying he will be "playing at the level he should be" by taking a step forward and joining the Blues, clearly demeaning his former club.

The Anfield faithful duly responded by publicly setting Torres' jersey up in flames, perhaps a sign of what is to come for the Spanish International.

In effect, not only has Torres played with fire by jumping ship to join rivals Chelsea, he will also be under unprecedented pressure to live up to the great expectations of his expensive new outfit.

Carlo Ancelotti will be pinning Chelsea's title challenge on the shoulders of the World Cup-winning forward and will be expecting the striker to follow through on his task.

It is anyone's guess what the events of tomorrow's clash between the two clubs will produce. Nonetheless, one thing is for certain. Fernando Torres will not be walking alone.

Fortunately for him, Stamford Bridge officials will be on standby in the event of a Merseyside-inspired riot.