Chelsea's Spanish full-back Cesar Azpilicueta has admitted that his participation in last summer's Confederations Cup didn't help his early relationship with club manager Jose Mourinho.
The former Marseille defender was part of La Roja's unsuccessful campaign, which ended in a 3-0 final defeat against the host nation Brazil.
However, the tournament also came at a time when Mourinho was getting to know his Chelsea squad after being reappointed manager at Stamford Bridge, a period the 24-year-old says could have been crucial.
He told The Independent: "I came three weeks later so missed the team's early preparations. I kept working since that day and knew that if I had the chance to show the manager if he needs me, I will be there. I knew I could be better and try to give everything.
"He did say to me he had confidence in me and that I would have time to play – but I earn it on the pitch. That's the most important thing."
Azpilicueta could feature in his side's clash with Manchester United on Sunday afternoon.
Chris O'Keefe
