Mata benefiting from 'logical' extended summer break

Oct 1, 2012 12:40:00 AM

The 24-year-old feels his best is yet to come after being given time off following an exhausting year that saw him participating in Euro 2012 and the London Olympics

Chelsea midfielder Juan Mata has attributed his impressive early season form to manager Roberto Di Matteo's decision to hand him a fortnight off after the season had started.

The Spain international had a rigorous first year in England, making 53 appearances in all competitions as the Blues won both the FA Cup and the Champions League.

Mata would then participate for his country in Euro 2012 before being an ever-present in Spain's underwhelming London 2012 Olympics campaign, and after returning to Stamford Bridge in time for the new season, it was decided that the playmaker was in need of a rest.

"We had a talk before the start of the season because, with the Euro cup and the Olympic Games, it must be a hard summer for me," Mata told reporters.

"So I think it was logical. I feel really well as well because of the good run of results for the team. We stayed at the top of the league, so I'm very happy."

Mata has starred since his return from his fortnight's break, and scored the winner at the Emirates on Saturday as his side defeated rivals Arsenal 2-1 to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table to three points.

The former Valencia player says that his extended break will enable him to produce even better performances as the months go on.

"Before I had these two weeks, I didn't feel bad," continued Mata. "But I think, with so many games in the season, it will be good for me and now I feel very, very good. I think it was a nice break for me. Two weeks resting, trying to get out of football and now I feel really fit."

Mata's next port of call is in the Champions League as Chelsea continue their defence of their European title with a trip to Denmark to face FC Nordsjaelland.