Ramires’ return ‘very important’ for Blues

Jose Mourinho believes Ramires being available again is a huge boost for Chelsea.

The Brazilian workhorse has been nursing a muscle injury but returned to action when he came on as a late substitute in Saturday’s derby victory against QPR.

Mourinho regards him as a key squad player and expects him to play a significant role this season.

---

Chelsea v QPR player ratings

“It’s very important for us,” said the Blues boss.

“Tactically he is good, he can play in many positions and has intensity.

“He is a guy who is dangerous when attacking, good in defensive transition and has a fantastic engine to drop back and to press.

“He’s an important player for us, and a balance between technical players and players like Ramires I think is fundamental to our squad.”

Ramires could feature Wednesday’s Champions League game against Maribor.

Mourinho has said he believes Diego Costa, who missed four matches prior to the QPR game, will be in the squad for the trip to Slovenia.

But the Spain striker, who has had an ongoing hamstring complaint, could be rested ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash with Liverpool.

Mourinho is also hopeful that John Mikel Obi will recover from a knee problem in time to join the squad.

Follow West London Sport on Twitter
Find us on Facebook