Juan Mata: 'Fernando Torres is key'

Spain midfielder Juan Mata believes that Fernando Torres will be an integral part of his country's bid to win Euro 2012.

Torres has had a difficult year for both club and country which ended with him missing out on a starting place in Chelsea's Champions League triumph.

However, without the injured David Villa, Vicente del Bosque will be looking to the former Atletico Madrid man for goals and Mata is adamant that his Blues teammate can be a big performer at the tournament.

"I never lost confidence in Fernando Torres being in the Euros squad," said Mata.

"Fernando is in an excellent moment and I think he will be a key for Spain."

Spain are in Group C along with Italy, Republic of Ireland and Croatia.