When I came to Chelsea from West Ham there were certain parts of my game I felt I needed to improve and I like to think now that I have shown dramatic improvement.

I admit I was somewhat concerned when we started to sign so many players - naturally you are going to worry about whether you can retain your place in the side.

As far as I see it you just can't give Messi space in the dangerous areas - we have to close him down, get tight and give him as little room as we can because if you don't, he can destroy you.

Obviously, it has taken time to work with the players around me and with so many new faces coming in the summer, in a way it's been more difficult.

I think as far as kids go, you just have to work hard. Work on your skills, keep focused.

My dad shaped the footballing side of me, and Mum shaped me as a person. I've always been very close to her - we've only ever had one argument, and that was over something stupid when I was 13.

But what club wouldn't welcome the chance to strengthen their side, what club would turn down the resources Chelsea have?