By Jak Penny
Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech has admitted he will be glad to see the back of the Europa League, but not before he gets his hands on the trophy.
The Blues meet Portuguese giants Benfica in the competition showpiece on Wednesday night with the chance of becoming only the fourth team to win all four of Uefa’s European trophies after previous triumphs in the Cup Winners’ Cup, Uefa Cup and Champions League.
Cech believes the omens are in Chelsea’s favour given the circumstances that led to their victory in Munich 12 months ago, but was candid enough to admit his hopes this will be his last experience of the Europa League.
“It was really an incredible story, but I think winning back-to-back European trophies will be a great story, too – in almost the same circumstances; having to change the manager in the course of the season again,” he told the Daily Mirror.
“For me, it would be the perfect way to finish the season. It was a huge disappointment to go out of the Champions League but we wanted to respect this competition. This could be the only chance for us to win it.
“It is not something you say with a lack of respect, but I hope this is the last time I play in this competition. You need to have the right mentality when you go the final. We don’t fear to play the final. We don’t fear failure.”
