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Terry predicts Torres goal spree

Fernando Torres has drawn praise from Chelsea captain John Terry © PA Photos

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Chelsea captain John Terry has backed striker Fernando Torres to prove his doubters wrong with a sparkling run of form in the final weeks of the season.

Torres has come under fire for his performances since his £50 million move from Liverpool in January 2011 and his poor form has cost him a place in the latest Spain squad, but Terry is convinced his team-mate is ready to banish his demons and return to top form.

"It only takes that one goal or something to happen for him to really kick on, but he's putting in a shift for the team as well," Terry is quoted in the Sunday Mirror.

"Sometimes that doesn't get picked up as much as it should do. You know what it's like for strikers.

"Mentally he has had to be very strong - and he is. He has got the full support of the fans and the players. It will always remain that way.

"We are eager for him to score goals. He will certainly get the support and the assists from the quality that we have in the side."

Terry hopes Torres's crucial goal in Thursday night's Europa League win against Steaua Bucharest will boost his confidence ahead of Sunday's Premier League game against West Ham, with the Blues captain even suggesting the penalty missed by his much-maligned team-mate is a sign that he rediscovering his self-belief.

"That's a big sign, him grabbing the ball and taking it (the penalty) in the first place," added Terry.

"Obviously, he's a little bit short of confidence but to see him grab the ball, that's maybe the change that he needs. Scoring the goal was great for him as well.

"We are mentally very strong. We have dealt with ups and downs throughout season after season, we will always remain together."

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