Jose Mourinho has once again stressed that Petr Cech plays a major role at Chelsea despite having been limited to only 66 minutes of action in the Premier League this season.

The Czech Republic stopper has become the number two at Chelsea in a remarkable fashion. Few doubt the 32-year-old slipping into this position a few months ago, but the return of their Courtois as one of the top goalkeepers in the game has forced Mourinho into making this decision. Even though Cech is being sparingly used to this season, Mourinho says that the experience and quality that the 32-year-old brings is extremely important.

The Portuguese boss has recalled the occasion when Cech had to come on to replace the injured Courtois in the 2-0 win over Arsenal. Despite being a benchwarmer this campaign, Cech showed no signs of rustiness and made some crucial saves to keep Arsenal out. Since then, he has featured only in Capital One Cup and Champions League matches. It is clear that Courtois will be the number one unless the Belgian loses his form for some reason. Hence, transfer rumours have widely linked Cech with an exit in January. Clubs like Liverpool are monitoring the situation and the 32-year-old is expected to cost around £ 7 million.

“The most important thing is what he brings to the team on the pitch, which is top quality. When Courtois was injured against Arsenal and Petr Cech comes to play on minute 20, I was so calm. I wasn’t worried about a change of goalkeeper.So when you have on the bench a super goalkeeper like Petr Cech this is the most important thing.I have to feed that ambition to keep him… I’m not saying happy happy, because to be happy a player must play every game,” said Mourinho.