Di Matteo: Focus on the now

Chelsea manager Roberto Di Matteo says his side must focus on the current Champions League campaign rather than dwelling on last season.

The Italian is determined to repeat the feat this term, but when quizzed on what the European win meant to him, he insisted it was not on his mind.

“When you are at a big club like Chelsea, there is always pressure to win trophies and bring more success,” he told reporters.

“Everybody was pleased we finally brought the Champions League trophy to Stamford Bridge but now we have to look forward now, that’s in the past.”

Wednesday night’s opposition, Juventus, represent a tough opening task for Di Matteo’s side as the Serie A champions are currently on an unbeaten domestic run of 42 games.

And, Di Matteo admits the match will prove a stern test of his side’s credentials.

“Playing Juventus is one of the most difficult fixtures we could have drawn in the Champions League.

“They are a very strong team, everybody recognises that and they are on a long unbeaten run. They have a lot of quality, experienced and younger players.”

Di Matteo is determined to become the first manager to retain the Champions League title and dismissed claims the Blues were lucky on their way to the European crown last season, especially after being second best to Bayern Munich for much of the final last May.

“You need to deserve everything you get. We worked very hard and prepared well for the different opponents we faced,” Di Matteo said.

“It can’t just be luck, of course you need a portion, but that’s a minor part of it.

“It’s difficult because of the fierce competition. Every season there are new strong teams who qualify, such as Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus, which makes it difficult, but we will try because it’s not impossible.”