Branislav Ivanovic: Chelsea are making good progress ahead of the new season

Branislav Ivanovic believes Chelsea are making good progress in pre-season as they gear up for the new Premier League campaign in August.

The Serbian international has played a crucial role in his side's games so far, impressing during their tour of Asia.

The defender is happy with his own game and believes Andre Villas-Boas' side are in good shape for the season ahead.

He told the club’s official website: “It is important in these kind of games to see things that are developing."

"It is very important to keep going with a good defensive line but at the same time we are looking for good play as well, and I think it is going to be fine for the start of the season. It is good that everyone is working hard."

Ivanovic scored in the Blues victory over Thai Premier League All Stars after driving from the back of the defence to find the net after some neat passing with Josh McEachran, which he admitted he was pleased with.

The Serb believes the clubs remaining pre-season games are crucial as Chelsea look to bounce back from the disappointment of losing their Premier League crown to Manchester United last season.

"It was a good goal," he admitted. "It is great because it gives you confidence when you score goals but it is not so important when a defender scores goals.

“They are going to be very important for the start of the season for us.”