I never relax on the year before. Every year I want to get more out of myself so I use it as a driving force, rather than a pressure thing.

Having grown up watching Barcelona, Elen gets a bit annoyed watching me if I don't do flicks and tricks like Ronaldinho. I have to explain you can't do that all the time in a game!

Of course it is going to be difficult for any player to get in the Chelsea side no matter who they are.

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.

I've always been a city person - London boy - and New York is just incredible. It has what London has but almost more in terms of variety, culture, social life, everything. I just like walking the streets and feeling the energy and the vibe.

When you see young players coming into the squad and pushing you, no matter what age you are, you have to react. You have to worry about yourself and perform as well as you can. If you end up looking around at others, wondering whos performing better, you take your eye off the ball.

I can't stress the importance of working hard enough, work on all aspects of your game. If you does that and you have the ability, you'll come through.