Torres wants trophies at Liverpool

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres insists his desire to end the club's title drought is a huge motivating force for him.

The Spain international, who scored an 11-minute hat-trick against New Zealand in the Confederations Cup yesterday, signed an improved contract at the end of last month after a stunning first two seasons on Merseyside.

That did not stop speculation at the weekend that Manchester United were preparing a shock bid for the 25-year-old, who has scored 50 goals in 84 matches for the Reds.

However, after running United so close in the Premier League title race Torres said he was determined to bring the championship back to Anfield next season and had no intention of moving to find success.

"They say foreign players don't care as much as the home-grown, but we are very much aware that Liverpool haven't won the Premier League for 19 years and understand the supporters are desperate for us to put that right," he said.

"The rivalry with Manchester United is intense and the roof will come off at Anfield if we beat them to next year's title.

"Obviously the Champions League means a lot to Liverpool, but the English title is the one everyone wants in our dressing room."

Torres added on liverpoolfc.tv: "Liverpool Football Club is a phenomenon, with millions of fans who totally identify with everything the club stands for.

"They are at one with the players and that's why we get the backing at Anfield. This club has it all: the history, the prestige, the fans, the organisation.

"It's a big responsibility to give the fans here the success they desire, but the challenge is always exhilarating and this is why I was delighted to sign a new contract.

"Now we need to win the big trophies and we can trust Rafa Benitez to keep the momentum going for us.

"He is a great manager and has helped me improve so much in my time at Liverpool."