Simeone hails ‘icon’ Torres after landmark operate

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone described Fernando Torres as an « icon » after he scored his a centesimal LaLiga operate in the routine three-zero exercise over Levante on Sunday.

The 34-year-historical confirmed earlier this week that he’ll leave the membership, where he made his title as a younger striker, when his contract expires at the highest of the season.

Torres, who returned to Atletico in 2015 on an initial mortgage deal, has been ready for his landmark LaLiga operate since hitting the fetch in opposition to Las Palmas in January.

He in the ruin brought up three figures with a remarkable volley to total the scoring in the joyful exercise, leaving Simeone to heap reward on the previous Spain striker.

« Fernando is an icon right here, whether or no longer he’s scoring targets or no longer, » he acknowledged in his put up-match press conference.

« He is earned this characteristic and respect thru laborious work.

 ¡Gol del Niño… en el Día del Niño!

  @Torres #AúpaAtleti #AtletiLevante pic.twitter.com/XdX8xrO3Ov

— Atlético de Madrid (@Atleti) April 15, 2018

« After I known as him to signal for us, I told him I needed him to advance motivate as a soccer participant and no longer an idol.

« Fernando’s efficiency became as soon as as crucial as that of your whole personnel.

« We made three very magnificent targets, and having every person pulling in the identical direction is what works for the personnel.

« Of us care that Fernando has remarkable emotions for this membership, it makes me elated to have helped him dwell with this personnel as soon as extra. »