Ramires is not leaving Chelsea, insists Mourinho

Thegoalmac can reveal that Chelsea coach Jose Mourinho has labelled Brazil international Ramires a ‘champion’ and assured the midfielder that he will soon return to the starting line-up.

The 27-year-old is currently recovering from a groin injury and has appeared in just half of Chelsea’s Premier League matches so far this season.

But with speculation linking him with a summer move away from the club, Mourinho has moved to reassure Ramires that he still had a major role in Chelsea’s future.

"Ramires is a champion, and a fantastic professional," Mourinho said.

"Step by step, he is working intensely and is still available for the team, but he is not ready to play as a starter.

“For now, he will stay on the bench and once he is fully fit will come into play.”

Ramires missed Brazil’s four previous matches through injury but is expected to return to the squad when the Gillette Brasil Global Tour resumes with a clash against France in March.