Fernando Torres has had an eventful career since his £50m move to Chelsea, and is appreciative of the support from the Blues faithful. On Saturday he scored his third goal for his new club but also saw red for a lunging challenge, whilst the previous weekend he missed an open goal in the defeat at Manchester United.
Yet, throughout all his goal drought, Torres has enjoyed virtually unwavering support from Stamford Bridge, something that has not gone unnoticed by the Spaniard.
He told Chelsea TV: "Obviously, when you are doing great, scoring goals from the first day and doing good performances, it's easy for the fans to love and support you."
"But the first six months for me at Chelsea have been very, very difficult and I have been struggling, and I have always had the support of the fans.
"From the first day till now, every time I talk with them on the street, the cafe, everywhere, I can feel the support they are giving me so it is nice to start scoring for them."
The striker had never been sent off in English football, and although he insisted there was no malicious intent on Saturday, he confessed to catching the Swansea midfielder.
"Obviously, I didn't want to do anything bad against the other player," Torres said.
"I tried to take away my legs, but I arrived late to the ball and I kicked him a little bit.
"It's a pity and I'm really disappointed for that."
He added: "It is the first time I have received a red card in the Premier League and I hope it is the last one.
"It was really disappointing, especially because the team had to play with 10 men for a long time."
Meanwhile Torres has found a home so near Stamford Bridge that he has begun walking to matches.
"It's different playing in England, especially at Chelsea," he added.
"I can do this kind of thing. It's a pleasure to be working and be respectful for the people.
"I don't live far from the ground and it is nice to see the atmosphere before the game and all the fans waiting.
"They already know I'm coming but it will probably be more difficult next time!"
