Jose Mourinho says Fernando Torres has Chelsea future
Last updated on .From the section Football
Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho says Spain striker Fernando Torres still has a future at Stamford Bridge.
The 30-year-old, who joined the Blues for £50m in January 2011, has scored nine goals in 33 games this season.
Mourinho said he was "not happy" with his striking options after Wednesday's 3-1 Champions League defeat by Paris St-Germain in the French capital.
Asked about Torres on Friday, he said: "Obviously we want him to score more goals. But does he have a future? Yes."
The former Liverpool forward was left out of the starting line-up for Chelsea's quarter-final first-leg loss to PSG, with Andre Schurrle preferred up front.
"During [his] period at the club he has had moments, some of them important moments," Mourinho added.
"He works hard for the team and brings things to the team. He is contracted and a good professional."
Torres' move from Liverpool on a five-and-a-half-year deal set a new British transfer record but he has has struggled to recreate his best form in west London.
The Spaniard has scored a total of 44 goals in 164 appearances for Chelsea, who signed him on the strength of a return of 81 goals in 142 matches for the Reds.
Eden Hazard, 23, is Chelsea's top scorer this season on 16 goals, while fellow attacking midfielder Oscar, 22, is tied for second with 33-year-old forward Samuel Eto'o on 11 goals.