Fernando Torres has expressed his gratitude to Chelsea for standing by him during the difficult periods he has faced at Stamford Bridge, and in doing so quashed rumours that he is set to leave the club.

Reports in the media yesterday suggested that Torres could follow Rafael Benitez out of the club, with Napoli a potential destination for the Spanish pair.

However, the striker has called the prospect of playing under Jose Mourinho, who is expected to be reappointed as Chelsea manager in due course, a “big motivation”, whilst maintaining that respect should be shown to Benitez, who guided the club to third place in the Premier League, and Europa League glory in Amsterdam last week.

Elsewhere, Marco Materazzi has told Football Italia that he would “love” to become Mourinho’s assistant, following rumours that he could follow the 50 year old to Stamford Bridge.

The former defender worked with the Special One at Inter Milan, where they enjoyed success in the league, cup and Champions League.

Someone else who is rumoured to follow Mourinho to Chelsea is Cristiano Ronaldo, after former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon declared that the Blues were one of only three sides who could afford him.