THE BEST SOCCER PLAYERS

Luis Suarez, an instant hero in the Reds' 2-0 victory against Stoke City Luis Suarez enjoyed a dream debut for Liverpool as he stepped off the bench to score the second goal in a 2-0 win over Stoke and prove that life goes on without Fernando Torres at Anfield. The Uruguayan made a £22.8million move to England from Ajax in the January transfer window as part of Kenny Dalglish's plans to rebuild the 18-time champions of England. And, although he began the match among the substitutes, Suarez could not have announced himself in any better fashion than with a goal at The Kop end following his 63rd minute introduction. Wearing the No.7 shirt made famous by Dalglish and Kevin Keegan, the striker could yet see the Premier League's dubious goals panel deny him his 79th minute strike following the intervention of Andy Wilkinson, but he still claims the spotlight. Raul Meireles had put Liverpool in front in the 47th minute, while injured £35m-man Andy Carroll was watching

Liverpool have confirmed they have agreed the sale of Fernando Torres to Premier League rivals Chelsea. It is understood Chelsea's offer is £45 million and the striker will now hold talks with the Blues as he seeks to finalise a deal before the transfer window closes. A statement read: "Liverpool Football Club tonight confirmed they have agreed a fee with Chelsea for the sale of Fernando Torres. The player has now been given permission to speak to the London club." Torres joined Liverpool from Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2007 and has scored 65 goals in 102 Premier League games. Liverpool have moved to compensate for the loss of Torres by agreeing a £35 million deal for Newcastle United striker Andy Carroll. The club are also hopeful of signing Blackpool midfielder Charlie Adam, while Stephen Warnock has been linked with a return to Anfield on loan. Chelsea, meanwhile, are working hard to sign Benfica defender David Luiz before the transfer window closes.