text: Fernando Torres has played with some great players over the years but the on-loan Atletico Madrid striker regards Steven Gerrard as the best. Torres spent three-and-half-seasons at the English club and struck up a close friendship with the former England captain, even returning to Anfield to play in his charity match against Jamie Carragher's side. Since leaving the club in 2011, Torres has never quite found his best form - suffering a miserable time with Chelsea before signing for AC Milan and returning to Atletico on loan. He has scored four times since heading back to Spain in January. Fernando Torres (left) and Steven Gerrard became good friends during his successful career at Liverpool . He told Marca Plus Magazine: 'Out of all the great players I have played with, Gerrard, for me, is the best. 'But he is more than that - he is a good friend who, as a captain, is always there for his players. 'I know what Liverpool means to him, so yes I would have loved to see my friend finish his final season with a trophy, but it was not to be. 'He has had so much success for Liverpool that I am sure the final game is going to be very emotional for him and the fans.' Torres' new side travel to rivals Real Madrid for a place in the Champions League semi-final on Wednesday, knowing that they haven't lost to their neighbours in the previous six matches. The 31-year-old has struggled for form since leaving the club and has only scored four goals for Atletico . Gerrard was unable to end his Liverpool career on a high by winning the FA Cup after defeat by Aston Villa .
target: Fernando Torres hailed Steven Gerrard as the best he ever played with .
  The 31-year-old struck up a friendship with Gerrard while at Liverpool .
  Torres has never quite rekindled his top form since leaving Anfield .
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