Chelsea's Juan Mata (left) celebrates with the trophy following the UEFA Champions League Final at the Allianz Arena, Munich, Germany.

Juan Mata hailed Fernando Torres

Chelsea star Juan Mata has revealed that the Fernando Torres was the reason he joined the club last summer.

The 24-year-old joined the Blues from Valencia in a £23.5million move and helped the club lift the Champions League trophy last Saturday.

“It’s hard to put into words what Fernando has done for me here,” Mata said.

“He was the fundamental reason I came.

“He told me I would love it here, that I’d enjoy English football and so because of him I came.

“Since I arrived, he has helped me with everything. He gave me his car and let me stay in his house. Everything. I still don’t know how I can thank him for all he has done.

“That’s why I am very happy when he scores and when he plays at his best because he deserves it.”