Chelsea goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois expects to start Premier League season ahead of Petr Cech

Jose Mourinho may face goalkeeping headaches with both Courtois and Petr Cech after the starting job

Courtois expects to start the Premier League season in the Chelsea goal (Getty Images)

Jose Mourinho may have to steel himself for a proverbial goalkeeping Rumble in the Jungle, after Thibaut Courtois made it clear that he expects to start the new season in between the Stamford Bridge sticks.

Courtois returned to Chelsea last week for pre-season training having seen his stock rise even higher after a string of impressive displays for Belgium at the World Cup.

And he has set his sights firmly on usurping Petr Cech, a 10-year veteran in the Chelsea goal.

Mourinho has made it clear that he has yet to decide between Cech and Courtois for the Blues' opening Premier League encounter against Burnley - but he could run into problems no matter which option he takes.

Courtois has made it clear that he has returned from his loan spell at Atletico Madrid in order to take up a position as Chelsea's undisputed No 1.

But Cech has also made it clear that he expects to start.

Courtois impressed for Atletico Madrid last season on loan (AP)

Mourinho like to keep both - but if Cech's unhappiness requires him to be moved the Czech international will have a significant list of suitors.

Paris St-Germain are keen on the veteran keeper and are said to be preparing a £10 million bid to test Chelsea's resolve, should the west London club be faced with a wantaway player.

But as revealed on Thursday, Chelsea may need to keep Cech as Real Madrid have made Courtois their long-term target to take over as No 1.