Cesar Azpilicueta has heaped praise on manager Jose Mourinho, claiming that the Portuguese's know-how proved vital in Chelsea's Premier League title success.

The Blues beat Crystal Palace 1-0 at Stamford Bridge this afternoon to win their third top-flight crown under the guidance of Mourinho.

Chelsea, who also lifted the League Cup earlier this season, currently boast a mammoth 16-point lead over closest challengers Manchester City and Arsenal, which Azpilicueta believes is a testament to the quality of his teammates.

"This is a very big moment, we deserve it, as a team we have been looking forward to this moment," he told BBC Sport. "We know the quality of the Premier League and it is tough, every game is difficult.

"To have a 16-point advantage and win it with three games to go is not an easy thing to do. Mourinho is a very big influence - we needed him.

"He has come to this team, we have won two trophies this year and we want to go and win more trophies. For me he has confidence in me and I am grateful to him."

Chelsea, now unbeaten in 15 league outings, see out their season with games against Liverpool, West Bromwich Albion and Sunderland.