• Premier League

Matic: It took me a minute to agree Chelsea return

ESPN staff
March 15, 2014
Nemanja Matic says he had 'no doubts' about heading back to Stamford Bridge © Getty Images
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Nemanja Matic has told the Daily Express he only needed a minute to agree his return to Chelsea.

Matic, 25, re-signed for Chelsea in January for £21 million from Benfica, having left Stamford Bridge in 2011.

The midfielder has already made a positive impression since his return, with 10 appearances in all competitions.

Reflecting on his decision to make his Chelsea comeback, Matic explained how the chance to work under Jose Mourinho was one he could not turn down.

"I had no doubts about coming back," Matic said. "I spoke with my agent for one minute and that was it. I decide it was good for me to come back.

"To be honest, I didn't know what my contract was going to be. I just said: 'OK, I will go there and after that we will see'. We made a deal and I am happy.

"The first time here I was very young and Chelsea had big players in my position:[(Michael] Ballack, [Frank] Lampard, [Michael] Essien. I also came here injured, I was four months out so it was difficult for me.

"I feel now is the right moment for me to play Premier League. It is not easy for young players in the Premier League because it is very hard, very tough. Now I feel I am prepared.

"I want to use this chance to play for a big club in a big league and work with a coach like Jose Mourinho, who is one of the best in the world."

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