Source: Team_Talk
Mata ready for 'strange night'
Juan Mata admits it will be 'strange' returning to Valencia with Chelsea, but insists he is ready to put friendships to one side.[LNB] The Spain international swapped life at the Mestalla for that at Stamford Bridge over the summer.[LNB]He has settled quickly in England but will be back in his homeland on Wednesday night in the UEFA Champions League.[LNB]It promises to be an emotional night for Mata as he prepares to line-up against former domestic colleagues.[LNB]Some players find it difficult to go back to their former clubs, especially ones where they are still held in high regard.[LNB]Mata, though, believes he is professional enough to handle the occasion and play his part in what he hopes will be a productive evening for his new employers.[LNB]"It is going to be strange for me," he said.[LNB]"I was here for a few years and it's going to be odd for me to go into a different dressing room.[LNB]"It will make it special for me. I know about the atmosphere in the Mestalla when Valencia play in the Champions League. I know how special the game is going to be and I'm very happy to be here.[LNB]"But I don't know if it will be hard for me to play against my former team. We will find out what it feels like.[LNB]"I'm focused on helping the team win. Before and afterwards I will say hello to my friends here but the focus is on helping Chelsea win."[LNB]Blues boss Andre Villas-Boas has no concerns regarding Mata's state of mind and is believes he will be a useful attacking weapon in midweek.[LNB]"Different players react differently coming back home, so the question is correct," he said.[LNB]"David Villa reacted differently when he came back here for the first time with Barcelona.[LNB]"But we bought Juan because we believe in his style of play and creativity."
