Diego Simeone: 'Fernando Torres is an impact substitute'

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone has revealed his plan to use Fernando Torres as an impact substitute after the striker rescued a 2-2 draw against Levante on Sunday.

The former Liverpool and Chelsea forward struck with 10 minutes remaining to secure a point for Los Rojiblancos, and Simeone explained why he prefers to use the Spaniard off the bench.

He told reporters: "When the opponent is tired Fernando Torres performs much better. He came on against against Villarreal with power, speed and freshness and did the same today.

"We designed the game so that Mario Mandzukic started and Torres could then come on and use his power.

"The fight for third place is very tight and competitive. We have put ourselves in a good position but there is still two games to play and anything can happen."

Atletico host Barcelona next week.