Europe » Euro 2008

Xabi: Torres Is Best In The World

Spain and Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso believes his team-mate Fernando Torres is the front-runner to be named FIFA World Player of the Year after his exploits at EURO 2008…

Jul 1, 2008 3:13:50 AM

Euro 2008: Spain - Germany, Fernando Torres (PA)

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Euro 2008: Spain - Germany, Fernando Torres (PA)

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Torres earned hero status on Sunday when he scored the winner against Germany in Vienna to steer La Furia Roja to their first major title since 1964.

The achievement capped what has been a remarkable season for the 24-year-old, who scored 33 goals during his first term on Merseyside after his ₤21million move from Atletico Madrid.

And Alonso believes the fact his fellow Red has turned it on when it counts time and again makes him one of the favourites to be crowned the world’s best player.

“It was a great strike from Fernando and on Sunday he showed he is the man who performs on the big nights,” said the Basque playmaker.

“That goal has been key. He can be the best player in the world. He has all the qualities to get that award and he has a bright future in front of him.

“Winning against Germany is a massive step for him and for us. He is one of the candidates for World Player of the Year.”

Competition

Torres will face stiff competition from Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored some 42 goals as he helped Manchester United to both the Premier League and Champions League titles.

However, recent results in the FIFA award indicate that performance on the world and European stage is valued more highly than domestic achievements.

For example, many believe AC Milan superstar Kaka won last year purely because of his outstanding efforts in the Champions League; the year before, Fabio Cannavaro took the title after captaining Italy to glory in the World Cup.

And while Ronaldo has been sensational in the Premier League, he has drawn widespread criticism for his less impressive displays in Europe and for Portugal – indeed, many have expressed their dissatisfaction at his exploits during EURO 2008.

Hence, Torres has a lot pointing in his favour, and Cesc Fabregas also believes his compatriot is worthy of being crowned FIFA World Player of the Year.

“Yes, Fernando can be the best in the world,” said the Arsenal gun. “This is about the Spanish team and not the individual performance but I told him the final would be his game and he would score — and he got that goal.”

Mike Maguire

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