Liverpool fans are divided after Fernando Torres receives a standing ovation on his return to Anfield for the Liverpool legends game
Liverpool supporters are divided on social media after Fernando Torres received a raucous reception on his return to Anfield.
Torres joined a number of former Liverpool stars to feature in a clash against their Ajax counterparts to raise money for the LFC Foundation.
The 40-year-old, who retired from playing following a spell at Japanese side Sagan Tosu in 2019, impressed fans with his skills as he linked up with his former teammates during a training session before the game.
After netting late as Liverpool legends defeated Ajax on Saturday Torres received a standing ovation from the Anfield crowd.
However, clearly still scorned from his acrimonious exit, some fans insisted Torres should not have been greeted with such a warm welcome from the Anfield faithful.
Fernando Torres marked his return to Anfield with a goal in the Liverpool legends game
The 40-year-old Spaniard received a standing ovation as he was substituted late against Ajax
One wrote: ‘Our fanbase has no pride or self respect giving him a standing ovation’
Another added: ‘They better give that same love to Coutinho if he ever returns to Anfield.
‘He didn’t join a Premier League rival and then say “I’ve finally joined a big club” when he did.’
Other fans were more charitable to the World Cup winner however, with one writing: ‘As much as I’d love to hate him I just can’t bring myself to’
Another agreed: ‘In his prime he was absolutely phenomenal was gutted when he left’
A further fan wrote: ‘Being able to celebrate a torres goal again is very special’
But reactions online were mixed based on his acrimonious departure from the club to join Chelsea in 2011
After joining the club in 2007, Torres earned a legendary reputation among supporters for his efficiency in front of goal, netting 81 times in all competitions for the Reds.
However, the Spaniard controversially departed Merseyside to join Chelsea four years later and added further fuel to the fire when he was quoted as saying he had finally joined one of the world’s ‘top clubs’ upon his arrival at Stamford Bridge.
