Sweating on his place: Torres has underperformed so far this World CupIt would have been inconceivable when he despatched the goal that secured Spain's first-ever major title two years ago, but Fernando Torres has been forced to consider his right to a starting place for tonight's World Cup semi-final with Germany in Durban.
The Germans had no answer to his pace when he settled the Euro 2008 final in a manner confirming his status as a top finisher.
As the teams prepared to meet again, the Liverpool striker faced the threat of being left out after clear signs that fitness problems have taken their toll on his form
Big decision: Spain coach Vicente del Bosque (left) must decide whether to drop the strikerA Cesc Fabregas leg injury may yet grant him a reprieve, but Torres knows his place is in jeopardy.
'No player is assured of a place in the starting XI,' he said. 'A player has to give 100 per cent in his fight for a place, and if he isn't given the nod by the boss, he has to cheer on the team from the sidelines. If I score against Germany and it takes us to the final, that would be unbelievable. I hope history can be repeated, but I hope we win.'
Spain manager Vicente del Bosque said: 'Tomorrow we will know who will be in the starting XI. We'll play with those who we believe will be the most important and well suited to the occasion.'
Germany boss Joachim Low played down suggestions of discord after stand-in skipper Philipp Lahm said he wanted to continue in the role, even if injured captain Michael Ballack returns to international duty.
Low said: 'Lahm spoke honestly - and we have freedom of speech - but he knows it is the coach's decision after the World Cup.'
source: dailymail
