Fernando Torres: 'Spain deservedly favourites to win World Cup'

Fernando Torres has claimed that Spain are deserved favourites to win the World Cup.

The reigning champions get the defence of their title underway on Friday when they face the Netherlands in Salvador.

While Brazil and Germany are among the sides who are expected to challenge strongly at the tournament, Torres admits that it is only fair for Spain to be considered the team to beat following their success four years ago.

"We should be [favourites] by right and because we've won that right," the striker is quoted as saying by ESPN.

Torres has scored 37 goals in 107 appearances for Spain since he made his debut in 2003.