Atletico Madrid captain Gabi would ‘prefer it’ if Fernando Torres didn’t play for Chelsea this evening.
The Rojiblancos face the west London side in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final tonight.
And the midfielder has admitted that he would rather the ex-Colchoneros striker wasn’t playing for Jose Mourinho’s men.
“Fernando Torres is a hugely influential big-game player,” he told Marca.
“It's up to his Coach whether he starts or not, but I'd prefer it if he didn't because he's a cracking player.
“This is going to be an emotional game for Fernando, because he hasn't yet had the chance to return to his boyhood club.
“Every Atlético fan is grateful for everything he did for this club. This game is a vital one for us so we'll leave the pleasantries until after the final whistle.”
