Juan Mata: I just kept working hard for my Chelsea chance

Juan Mata insists he did not struggle to keep his focus after falling out of favour under Jose Mourinho at Chelsea this season.

The Spaniard found himself out of Mourinho’s first-team for many of the Blues’ opening games but has managed to force his way back into the side through impressive displays in recent weeks.

And the 25-year-old says he was always focused on battling back into contention despite questions being raised over his future after an eye-catching performance in Tuesday’s 4-0 win against Steaua Bucharest.

“I just keep going, train well and prepare for every game,” said Mata.

“I just have to do my best in training and in games. It’s important to play with the ball and without the ball, but I’m very happy and looking forward to playing a lot of games throughout the season.

“I try to improve every season, my first and second seasons were fantastic but I want this one to be even better so I will try to improve, score goals, assist and do what I have to do.”

Mourinho praised Mata for his display in Romania, admitting that the playmaker has improved his work-rate off the ball.

“Mata played the No10 position and the No7 position and he played very good with the ball as he always does, and he is playing very good without the ball like he never did,” said the Chelsea boss.