Luiz: AVB deserved more time

David Luiz believes Andre Villas-Boas was not given enough time to prove himself before being sacked as Chelsea manager.

The flamboyant defender established himself as an important figure in Villas-Boas’ plans and got on well with the former Porto boss while he was still in charge at Stamford Bridge.

The 34-year-old Villas-Boas had his contract terminated by owner Roman Abramovich earlier this month after taking over in the off-season, and Luiz admits he was upset to see the manager go so soon.

“I’m really sad, as Andre was a really capable professional,” Luiz told The Sun. “Unfortunately, he didn’t have the time to show his true value at Chelsea.”

“He didn’t have the chance. You cannot doubt a professional like him, who won five titles last season and was feted by everyone. But he didn’t have enough time at Chelsea.”

Chelsea produced a stunning 4-1 win against Napoli on Wednesday to go through to the Champions League quarter-finals under the control of interim boss Roberto Di Matteo.