Jose Mourinho has stated that he is happy with Cesar Azpilicueta’s performances at left back for Chelsea and continued to cast doubt of the future of Ashley Cole, the Daily Star understands.

The England international was again left out the Blues line-up at the weekend as they were knocked out of the FA Cup by Manchester City.

He has made just four appearances so far in this calendar year, with two coming in both the Premier League and the FA Cup.

His lack of game time has also led to doubts over his position at international level; something which Mourinho has said cannot be in his thoughts.

Elsewhere, the Metro understands that the Chelsea manager has stated that Barcelona are at the weakest they have been for ‘many, many years’ ahead of their clash with Manchester City this evening.

City, who are considered to be the Blues’ main challengers for the title in the Premier League this season, will have the opportunity to show they can compete with Europe’s best as they take on the La Liga champions, and while Mourinho says that the Catalan club are favourites to win the tie, he believes they are not the force they once were.