Diego Simeone: 'Fernando Torres still an important figure at Atletico Madrid'

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone has described Chelsea misfit Fernando Torres as an "important" figure at the club.

The Argentine refused to comment on reports that Torres could rejoin the La Liga outfit in January, but admitted that his legacy remains strong in the Spanish capital.

"We must be respectful with my squad," he told reporters. "Despite how important a player Fernando is.

"I can't speak about other players because it wouldn't be fair for my players. I just have to focus on my guys."

Torres, who played for Atletico between 2001 and 2007, is currently on loan at Serie A club AC Milan.