Chelsea boss had forgotten 'winning feeling' prior to Champions League victory

Jose Mourinho said he had forgotten the feeling of winning

JOSE MOURINHO said victory over Maccabi Tel Aviv last night was crucial for Chelsea’s season – and admitted he had forgotten what the winning feeling was like.

 

Chelsea had lost in successive Premier League matches to Everton and Crystal Palace, and Mourinho said: “I forgot the feeling, it was so long. It’s a good feeling.”

The Chelsea boss said his side showed great character to secure a 4-0 win after their early season problems were capped by an early Eden Hazard penalty miss.

Mourinho believes the win sets his team up for Saturday’s visit of Arsenal.

 

He said: “The penalty was a big test for us because when everything goes against you – the red cards this season, some decisions, injuries – and after five minutes you miss a penalty, I think it is a great test. The reaction was good. I am happy with the performance and with the result.”

Mourinho made six changes to his starting side, singling out midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek, 19.

He said: “The team was more aggressive, with the ball and without the ball.

 

“The ball moved quickly, through Cesc Fabregas and Ruben, from defence to attack. Ruben played very well so that is very good for us. I think he is in condition to compete with other players for a position.

“He is having minutes already and he is potentially a very good player. But we have to feed and choose the right players.”

And Fabregas believes this win could be a turning point. The midfielder said: “The players were feeling it – like every big club we need results and performances.

“We were dominant and hopefully that is the start of a big run.”