Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic has claimed that the team is motivated to win this season's Champions League.

The Blues, who are currently at the top of the Premier League table, start their European campaign on Wednesday night at home to Schalke 04.

Having lost to Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals of last year's competition, Ivanovic is confident that Chelsea can challenge for the trophy again this term.

"I think the Champions League is a competition that everyone wants to win, all the players and all of the football people," he is quoted as saying by Sky Sports News. "It's special for all of us, we are ready and we are excited the Champions League is starting again.

"Motivation remains the same whether it's the group stage or knockout rounds. It's different to any other competition but all I can say is that the motivation is always high."

Ivanovic has scored two goals in four appearances for Chelsea so far this season.