Chelsea

Thibaut Courtois: 'This week is vital for Chelsea'

By Danielle Joynson, Staff Reporter | 07 December 2015

Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois says that it is an "important" week for the team as they try to keep their hopes of Champions League glory alive.

Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has claimed that this week is "important" for the club as they hope to progress into the knockout rounds of the Champions League and get back on track in the Premier League.

Both Chelsea and Porto can qualify for the last 16 of the tournament, but the Blues only require a draw against the Portuguese side at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday in order to reach the next stage.

Five days later, Jose Mourinho's side will take on Leicester City, who are at the top of the Premier League table, 17 points above Chelsea.

At the weekend, the Blues suffered their eighth defeat of the season when they were beaten 1-0 by Bournemouth.

"Of course we are upset, but we have to regroup again and show strength against Porto in the Champions League and next Monday at Leicester," Courtois told the club's official website.

"It's an important week for us. On Wednesday we have to win to make sure we are first and qualified. That will be a big boost for the team as well.

"Then Leicester away is a difficult game. We knew last year it was not easy there and now they have the confidence and are playing really well. It will be a very tough game but we are confident we can push on there."

Courtois returned to action at the weekend for the first time since August 29 after recovering from a knee injury.