Wednesday 22 July 2015 15:47, UK
Cesar Azpilicueta has welcomed competition for his starting role at Chelsea, with the club set to bring in a new left-back to replace the outgoing Filipe Luis.
Spain international Azpilicueta has developed into one of the Premier League's finest defenders since arriving in London from Marseille in 2012.
The 25-year-old arrived as a right-back but Jose Mourinho has utilised him to spectacular effect on the left flank since taking over for his second spell in charge at Stamford Bridge two summers ago.
Brazil international Luis was signed from then-reigning La Liga champions Atletico Madrid for £15.8m last summer but lost out to Azpilicueta in the battle for a starting role.
Now Chelsea have agreed to sell Luis back to Atletico and Azpilicueta admits he will be sad to see the 29-year-old leave the Blues.
"I think when he arrived he gave everything and tried his best," Azpilicueta said.
"I know everyone wants to play and we were in healthy competition but we are friends and we don’t have any problems.
"But they have made a decision and if it is official, I will wish him the best of luck and follow him for sure."
Luis' impending departure means Chelsea will be in the market for a new left-back to compete with Azpilicueta, as Mourinho confirmed to reporters earlier this week.
The arrival of yet another player to compete with doesn't faze Azpilicueta though - he believes competition is something you must embrace at top clubs.
"In football, in a great club like Chelsea and all the top clubs, you have quality players," Azpilicueta said. "Every one of us tries to give everything and make it difficult for the manager.
"You have to fight every day for your place so obviously I will have competition as always and I will try my best to work hard to play as much possible."
