LONDON: Chelsea striker Fernando Torres believes they need to show the form of Manchester City early last season to have a chance in the Premier League title race. 

 "We can’t lose early points because City showed last season that they didn’t lose many. We need to start well," the Spain international told London Evening Standard.

“It’s always important to begin well and look at the table to see Chelsea at the top. Nine points in the first three games is a target we should have.

"It is important after eight to 10 games for the team to still be at the top because it means that is your position more or less."

Torres insisted Chelsea must prioritize a top-four finish whilst aiming to mount a title challenge after a disappointing sixth place finish last season.

“We need to realize the Champions League is not easy to win every year so the first step is to be in the top four — that is a normal thing for Chelsea," he said. 

"Now we have to look at the title. If you are thinking of first place you can finish there, second or third but if you’re just looking at being in the top four, then you can be out.”

Torres encouraged a different approach is needed when playing in cup competitions compared to the league and also believes on their day, Chelsea are one of the best. 

"The Premier League shows the level you are at because it is a competition that lasts all the year, the cup is different," he said.

"We are a great team and we approach the cups in a different way. We can beat anyone but the League is telling you are at that level and last season we finished sixth. It is something we must improve." . 

Meanwhile, defender Branislav Ivanovic insists everyone is happy with Torres, despite the club still coming to terms with the loss of Didier Drogba, who left for Shanghai Shenhua in the summer.