Fernando Torres: English players need to play outside England

Fernando Torres made a move to the Premier League back in 2007 by signing for Liverpool

Chelsea striker Fernando Torres says that English players need to move out and play in foreign countries, as it would benefit them. The current England squad does not have a single player who has played outside England, where as Spanish, Dutch, German and Brazilian players have played in England and various other countries.

Speaking to French magazine So Foot, Torres said, "If it took a long time to export players, it was because we were scared. Scared of the unknown,"

"The same thing is happening to the English today. They are incapable of leaving the Premier League. But the day when it is the English who go abroad, a lot will follow. This could be for the best for the England team. I know what I am talking about.

"When Xabi Alonso, Reina, Arbeloa and Fabregas left for England, we became more competitive. The fact that the Spanish players toughen themselves up abroad has been very important."

English players like Joe Cole and Joey Barton have played in Ligue 1 for Lille and Marseille respectively.

All the top 7 teams in the Premier League have Spanish players or players from La Liga.

Manchester City: David Silva, Jesus Navas, Alvaro Negredo

Liverpool: Iago Aspas, Pepe Reina (on loan)

Chelsea: Fernando Torres, Juan Mata (first half of the season)

Arsenal: Santi Cazorla, Nacho Monreal and Mikel Arteta

Everton: Gerard Deulofeu (on loan)

Tottenham: Roberto Soldado

Manchester United: David De Gea, Juan Mata (second half of the season)

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