Fernando Torres says he is playing with confidence for Spain at Euro 2012 because he has the full backing of coach Vicente del Bosque.
Striker glad to have backing of coach Del Bosque
Fernando Torres says he is playing with confidence for Spain at Euro 2012 because he has the full backing of coach Vicente del Bosque.
The Chelsea striker endured another disappointing domestic campaign, often taking a backseat to Didier Drogba under former boss Andre Villas-Boas and current manager Roberto Di Matteo.
But the 26-year-old cut a different figure on his first start in Poland and Ukraine last week, scoring two goals as the Spaniards demolished the Republic of Ireland 4-0.
Torres, who is expected to start on Monday night in Spain's final Group C game against Croatia, feels his form is a result of Del Bosque's confidence in him.
"I scored twice in the last game and the team played well, which is what was important," he said.
"I feel good - but I have been playing with confidence in the national team for some time now. I have got the confidence of the coach. There is no reason to think things have to change.
"During the Euros, the level of the team will be higher at the end than it was at the start."
Tactics
Torres started Spain's opening group game against Italy on the bench, with Del Bosque opting for a striker-less formation as his side drew 1-1 with the Azzurri.
The coach's tactics attracted criticism from some areas but the striker said: "I think the technicians analyse the way our rivals play and then they decide for us. Every decision the coach takes is good because that is what he is there for.
"Against Italy, he wanted to strengthen the midfield and we had possession of the ball. Against Ireland, we played well for the beginning. The result shows that both systems worked. We have to be ready for everything."
Spain are targeting a record third consecutive tournament win in Poland and Ukraine and Torres is confident they can do well if they continue as they have started.
"We really hope we will see Iker Casillas taking the trophy again because that is what I see in my head all the time," he said.
"If the team plays on this level, all of us have a chance to make history and I hope the player of the tournament will be Spanish too."
