Arsenal's latest signing Petr Cech has thanked Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich for his help in securing his move to the Emirates Stadium, also praising the Russian's role in taking the Blues to the top level.
The 33-year-old goalkeeper secured a move to fellow Premier League side Arsenal earlier today after an undisclosed fee was agreed between the two clubs.
Cech, who had been with the Pensioners for over a decade, feels that time away from the first team at Stamford Bridge helped him to comprehend the situation closely, allowing him to realise how much he loved the game and how much he wanted to stay in the Premier League to compete with some of the best players in the world.
And that was precisely when, Cech reveals, that he spoke with the owner, who supported him throughout the transitional phase, allowing him to stay in England.
Cech also took time to praise Abramovich for all the work he has been doing for London-based club, having taken them to where they are.
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"The limited playing time gave me the chance to refresh and rest mentally as well as make me realise just how much I enjoy playing football at the highest level, because I missed it badly every game day I was not involved", Cech wrote in an open letter to Chelsea's fans.
"I have the same commitment to football, the same motivation and the same hunger for success as I had at the beginning of my career and I love the challenges brought by the top-quality players you face while playing the Premier League – simply the best and the most challenging league in the world.
"That's why I spoke to Mr Abramovich about me staying in the Premier League and I'd like to thank him from the bottom of my heart for his support in this matter.
"It means so much to me because without him Chelsea would not be where it is now. He deserves huge credit for what he has done for the club and for all of us."
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