Ex-Liverpool striker Fernando Torres has revealed that his former captain Steven Gerrard gave his blessing to the striker’s £50 million transfer to Chelsea, according to The Mirror.

Torres, who is in line to make his debut this Sunday against his former club following his switch to Stamford Bridge, has responded to claims that he disrespected Liverpool fans in recent days.

Now the Spanish World Cup winner has suggested that Kop legend Gerrard gave his seal of approval ahead of the British record-busting transfer, possibly in light of the midfielder’s own experiences with Chelsea in the past which saw him nearly join the west London club twice.

Speaking to reporters, Torres said: “Stevie was one of the first ones who called me and supported me, hoping for the best for me. Whether I left or stayed, he helped me and supported me, maybe because he’d been in the same situation first.

The odds on Steven Gerrard following Fernando Torres out of Anfield were significantly cut by various bookmakers, including Boyle Sports, who take bets online. Gerrard is now 6/4 to be playing in someone else’s jersey come the start of the 2011-12 season, with many speculating that he will end up at Chelsea too.