Chelsea Football Club News

• Nickname:Blues
• Founded:1905
• Manager:Roberto Di Matteo

• Ground:Stamford Bridge
• Capacity:42,440

Mourinho talks up chances

22 Feb 2007 - 10:21:52

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Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has warned Porto they will find his side hard to beat at Stamford Bridge after Wednesday's 1-1 Champions League last 16 first leg stalemate in Portugal.

The Blues recovered from the early loss of captain John Terry to injury and falling behind to secure a useful draw at Mourinho's former club courtesy of an Andriy Shevchenko equaliser.

"Under the circumstances, I am very happy with a draw," he said.

"We lost Terry early on, which would not have been a problem if I had a centre-half on the bench but I didn't. It meant we had to change the system, personnel, everything.

"Then I had to take Arjen Robben off at half-time and was forced to change it all again. Given all of that, I am happy to score an away goal and not lose.

"As a Portuguese man I am proud that my country has such a good team in Porto - but they'll know it will be hard to beat us at our place.

"We're second in the league and still in the FA Cup, Carling Cup and the Champions League.

"Considering our injuries and problems, this is my best season here so far."

Mourinho also reserved special praise for Shevchenko, adding: "I am not saying that because of his goal. His work-rate and contribution is getting better and better and I'm delighted with him."