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André Schürrle excited to work with Jose Mourinho

 

Matt McGeehan
Wednesday 26 June 2013 12:21 BST
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Andre Schurrle
Andre Schurrle (GETTY IMAGES)

New Chelsea forward Andre Schurrle is excited about the prospect of working with Jose Mourinho after becoming the Portuguese's first signing of his second spell at Stamford Bridge.

The 22-year-old Germany international has signed a five-year deal following his move from Bayer Leverkusen for a fee reported to be £18million.

Schurrle was long linked with a switch to west London and discussed life in the capital with Mourinho at former Blue Michael Ballack's recent testimonial in Germany.

"I'm really looking forward to working with him (Mourinho)," Schurrle said on chelseafc.com.

"I got to know him at Michael Ballack's testimonial a few weeks ago where we talked a little bit.

"He gave me advice on where to live and also explained what he expects from me.

"He's a very good person with a big personality; he's a great manager so it's an absolute honour for me to now be one of his players."

Ballack's advice helped, too, and now Schurrle is hoping to emulate his compatriot by winning silverware at Chelsea.

"Hopefully I can win a lot of titles in the next five years," Schurrle added.

"We have a great team with some very talented young players. We can all improve ourselves, and under Jose Mourinho I'm confident we can have a really great season.

"For this club, winning titles is always the main objective. We have a great young team with so much quality.

"We are capable of doing well in the Premier League, Champions League and the cup competitions as well, and I hope to play a big part."

It was announced on June 13 that Chelsea and Bayer Leverkusen had reached an agreement for his transfer and his move to Stamford Bridge was confirmed after paperwork was completed.

Schurrle, who can play as a creative wide player or central striker, will wear the number 14 shirt.

Schurrle knows Chelsea well, having watched from afar.

"I wanted to come here so I think I watched every single Chelsea game (last season)," he added.

"They finished the season very strongly; finishing third was very important for the club, qualifying for the Champions League without having to go through the qualifiers, so the last month in particular was very good."

PA

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