Ramires deserves his long-term deal – Mourinho

Jose Mourinho says Ramires richly deserves his new Chelsea contract.

The 28-year-old, who arrived from Benfica in 2010, signed a four-year deal at Stamford Bridge this week

“It’s not about this season, it’s about what he’s done since I came to Chelsea,” said Blues boss Mourinho.

“It’s his mentality as a group man; a player who is ready to play, to be on the bench, to stay in the stands, to play where the team needs him.

“He’s one of these guys that every manager loves and I’m happy that the club recognised that he deserves that.

“Everyone here is happy, because Ramires is one of these guys that not many recognise what he really is and what he means.”

The Brazilian’s previous deal was not due to expire until the summer of 2017 but Chelsea have moved to secure his future.

He has made 241 appearances for the club, scoring 33 goals.