Nemanja Matic has confirmed that he considered his future at Chelsea this summer.
The Serb played a bit-part role for the Blues last season having been vital in the club’s domestic success the previous campaign.
The arrival of N’Golo Kante sparked rumours that Matic could be sold, with Juventus and Manchester United interested.
And the 27-year-old, who has started all three of Chelsea’s Premier League matches this season, has confirmed he spoke with new boss Antonio Conte over a possible exit before deciding to stay in west London.
"To be honest I spoke with him," Matic told Sky Sports
"I spoke with the club and we both decided that it was best for the club and for me to stay.
"I'm very happy because I'm now here with this team and this club. I will give my best and all my quality to help the team to challenge for the title.
"As I said, I'm very happy to be here. I want to improve my game and I'm sure Conte is the right coach to do that."
Matic has also hailed the signing of Kante, claiming he is better than club hero Claude Makelele.
"He is very important for us, especially in that position," Matic added.
"You have to give balance to the team and he knows how he needs to do that job. He is very important for us.
"I know how difficult it is to play that position and I'm very happy because N'Golo is doing very well and is going to be a very important player for us, maybe one of the most important players in this season.
"It is very hard for him and it's going to be hard, but I'm sure that he is ready.
"Many people say that he is the new Makelele, but I don't think so. Makelele was a great player and we all respect him, me especially because I know that position and how it is difficult to play.
"But I think that N'Golo is better than him. He is doing his defensive job very well and with the ball he has some extra quality."
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