New star says countryman told him to join Chelsea …

Juan Mata has impressed fans and the media since his arrival at the club and says it is thanks to out of form striker Fernando Torres who got him to join the Blues during the summer.

                                   

It has been reported that Torres sent Mata numerous text messages to try and make sure he signed for the club, rather than opt for one of the other London clubs.

                                     

Despite moving from Valencia for £23 million-rated last month, it was only Thursday that he was introduced to the press when he confirmed that Torres was ”a very important factor” in making his decision.

                                       

Via his translator he said: ”I did talk to him about this and he was the one who encouraged me to come. Mata confirmed: ”He said this would be an excellent experience for me to play as part of a bigger team and a team which has excellent facilities, an excellent manager and excellent qualities overall.”

                                     

There is no doubt that Chelsea fans must be delighted that Torres helped him make the right choice.

                             

By Scott Balaam

Twitter @theshed11