Eulogy

The number 9 shirt has been worn by some of Liverpool's deadliest strikers over the years, most latterly by one Robert Bernard Fowler. Beatified by Liverpool fans and christened with nickname 'God', Fowler was and still is universally adored by all Reds. Fernando Torres is the latest incumbent of our number 9 shirt, and so far it's looking a perfect fit.

However not only has Torres inherited Fowler's number 9 the shirt, but also his chant. Like the shirt, this chant is reserved for only the most gifted of Liverpool strikers. For Torres to have this ultimate honour bestowed upon him with his Liverpool career in its infancy is an enormous tribute and hints at the exalted status Fernando Torres is held by Liverpool fans.

Not since the days of Fowler in his pomp or Owen at his blistering best have we seen a Liverpool striker play with as much threat, purpose and attacking verve as Torres. Liverpool fans are renowned as being some of the shrewdest and most knowledgeable fans around, but with this lad you don't even need half a brain to see that he is gonna be some player for us. Blessed with searing pace, supreme close control, mammoth strength and, to coin a Rafa-ism, game intelligence, you can't run out of superlatives to describe him.

Watching his hat-trick against Reading in the third round of the Carling Cup was an absolute joy. Whilst we toiled in an evenly matched first half it was always clear who Reading considered our main goal threat. Throughout the game Reading's players pushed hassled and harrangued the man from Madrid but they couldn't knock him out of his stride. At times he would receive the ball and there would be three opposition players trying to take the ball off him. Superb to see after having something of a toothless forward line in recent years.

In short Torres looks to be well on his way to becoming the latest addition to what is a tremendous Anfield striking dynasty. Let's just hope Rafa sticks him in against Wigan on Saturday, after all, he looks like half decent cover for Andriy Voronin doesn't he? ; )