Torres: Stevie was the best player I played with.

He may have played with a number of world class players over the years, but in his retirement press conference Fernando Torres was unequivocal in regards to who he feels stands above all else.

The Official site reported the former star striker as saying:

“I always say the best player I played with is Steven Gerrard,” 

" I found he was the player who completed my game. 

" I think my level got into a different dimension when I was on the pitch with him.

" It was an amazing three-and-a-half years playing alongside Steven and I would love to go back to those days – even for one minute.”

The mutual appreciation was reciprocated with the current Rangers manager posting a glowing tribute on his Instagram account.

" I loved playing with you and it was a pleasure to share a dressing room together . Fantastic player and a great person . All the best with your future."❤️

The pair were undoubtedly on the same wavelength whenever they took to the pitch and combined for numerous goals in the latter part of the last decade.

In his pomp, Torres was one of the most feared strikers in world football with his ability to run at the heart of the defence with blistering speed and sublime finishing quality.

But as we have often seen with the finely tuned athletes, they come increasingly susceptible to muscle injuries and that was certainly the case with Torres.

While his prime years was a fair bit shorter than they should have been, it's fair to say Liverpool fans were able to bare witness to a large majority of them.

Torres scored 65 goals in just 102 league games, while adding another 12 goals in Europe competitions and four in domestic cups to finish with 81 goals in 142 games for the Reds.

While the manner of his departure to Chelsea still rankles with many supporters, it cannot wipe out his contribution to the modern day history of the club.

Enjoy your retirement Nando.