Chelsea midfielder Ramires has said that the Blues are now stronger following Andre Villas-Boas's departure.

The Portuguese was sacked following a poor start to his Stamford Bridge career and was replaced by his number two, Roberto Di Matteo.

Since the change, Chelsea have won six out of their last eight games in all competitions.

"We went through a tough phase but we took strength from this change of coach," said Ramires. "We found new confidence after the change and feel more more respect in ourselves. Roberto has instilled great confidence in us.

"Also, we began to realise we are actually a great team, with great players. We built from our first victory in the first game after Roberto took over and have gone from strength to strength."

Ramires moved to West London from Benfica in 2010.