Atletico Madrid midfielder Koke says that the club’s former striker Fernando Torres has always been his inspiration. Torres is currently playing for Chelsea, who will be the visitors to the Vicente Calderon for the Champions League semi-final. Torres is regarded as a legend in these parts. He has stated ahead of the match that it will be an emotional return for him. Torres came through the ranks at Atletico Madrid before going on to captain the team at the age of just 19. He then was transferred to Liverpool in a £ 26 million deal in 2007.

Now, he is a £ 50 million striker and plays for Chelsea. Due to the way he has progressed in his career, midfielder Koke has made him his idol. The 22-year-old has been linked with a move to Manchester United over the last few months. Refusing to speak about his future, the youngster chose to speak about the upcoming match. Atletico Madrid have been extremely strong at home this season. They have failed to score only once and it was against Barcelona. They have come into the semi-final stage of the competition after beating the Catalan Giants 2-1 in the quarter-finals.

Koke has been a major reason towards Atletico Madrid challenging against Real and Barcelona in the league table.

“Fernando Torres has always been an inspiration for me. I’m sure all the fans will be happy to see him here. We wish him all the luck in the world but not in the game. To play a Champions League semi-final with the team you have supported as a child is a dream. If I’m picked it will be an incredible experience for me. [It] could be the most important game of my life. Chelsea play more or less the same way as us. It will be a physical game. We don’t fear them,” said Koke.