Mata puts friendships on hold

Chelsea midfielder Juan Mata says he is completely focused on his current team as he prepares to face former club Valencia.

Mata, a World Cup winner with Spain, joined Chlease from Valencia in the recent transfer window.

But he insists that any friendships he has with the Valencia players will be put on hold come kick-off in Wednesday’s Champions League clash.

Speaking to Chelsea’s official website, Mata said: “I don’t know yet if I will find it difficult, tomorrow I will find out, but I am going to focus on helping my team to win.”

“I will say hello to all my old teammates before the game but at kick-off, that is when friendship ends.”

“After the game it will be different but during it every player must focus on helping his team to win.”

When at Valencia, Mata made his Champions League debut against Chelsea in a 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge, but he believes the two situations are very different.

“That was my first game in the Champions League, now four years later I am going to play for Chelsea against Valencia.”

“But that happens in football and the feeling is totally different to then.”

The 23 year-old is excited about the match, however, believing that the atmosphere and crowd in the Mestalla will make it a night to remember.

“That will make it a special game and I know what the atmosphere is like in the Mestalla when Valencia play a Champions League game.”