Juan Mata has insisted that Chelsea teammate Fernando Torres has the ability to prove his critics wrong this season.

Despite the team's impressive start to the season, Torres has been the target of some criticism for his performances but Mata believes that his fellow Spaniard's attitude in training is a sign of things to come.

"I believe that Fernando will score goals, because I know him, I know how hungry he is inside himself," Mata told the Daily Mirror. "Every day he is looking to score. Every day he trains so hard. I know how he is inside his own mind.

"For sure he is going to score goals. He is still young, only 28, he has some years still to go. I believe in him because he is a true person and very professional."

Torres is expected to start against his former side Liverpool at Stamford Bridge on Sunday afternoon.