Manchester United vs. Chelsea: Fernando Torres Key for Blues' Upset Bid
Fernando Torres still cannot find the net as a Chelsea player. In 23 total appearances for the West London outfit, he has scored only one goal.
His overly-expensive purchase in last year's January transfer window looks more and more like a whiff every time he takes the pitch. But yesterday, that changed, at least a little bit, and Torres was on the assisting end of both of the Chelsea goals in their Champions League opener.
He didn't score, but he did help the team score.
This is a great accomplishment for the 27-year old and likely means he'll earn time with the starting XI for at least one more match. New Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas has plenty of goal-scorers at his disposal and doesn't need to waste time with the Spanish striker if he doesn't expect him to deliver. And deliver is what he must do when the Blues make their trip to Old Trafford this weekend.
Chelsea have had trouble scoring goals this season, at least in comparison with the Red Devils. United's 18 goals for leads all Premiership teams—except for rivals City—by a wide margin. City is a close second with 15.
The scariest part is that Sir Alex Ferguson's side has only given up three goals against with a youthful back line and goal keeper. Chelsea shares that goals-against mark, as does City, and the three clubs are the best England has to offer.
Chelsea has to be better though, and that means Torres most specifically. During his time at Liverpool, he was a hit man. He scored 81 goals in 102 games (includes all competitions), but he simply has not been in top form since 2010. With Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou, Nicolas Anelka, Daniel Sturridge and Romelu Lukaku as options, Torres' place in the first choice side is hardly guaranteed.
The Blues, despite their defensive prowess, have to expect that United will get on the board at some point. The most important thing for the West London outfit is to find their own way to the net as well.
Torres' two assists in the Champions League match is a good showing. If he's not going to find the net himself he needs to continue his assisting ways. Ultimately, he was bought to score goals though. Eventually they have to come or he will not be on the pitch.
A match with England-leading United would be as good a time as any to get things started.
