Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has kept in regular contact with Fernando Torres during his difficult time at the club.

The spotlight is now set to shine brightly on the Spaniard following Didier Drogba's decision to leave Chelsea this week.

El Confidencial says Abramovich has never wavered in his support of Torres, pulling him aside regularly for pep talks.

"I have not signed you for three months or a year. You are going to be here five years," the Russian billionaire told Torres last season as he struggled in front of goal.

Another time, Abramovich told his £50 million man: "Chelsea will be you and ten others."

After Drogba's revelation, Torres is waiting for word from Abramovich confirming he will be their No1 striker next season.