Christophe Lollichon on Petr Cech and the situation he has faced at Chelsea this season

Christophe Lollichon has been at Chelsea for eight years after previously coaching Petr Cech at his previous club Rennes beforehand. After Petr Cech revealed that he would be considering his future in the summer after a lack of regular first team football, Lollichon has spoken of how hard it has been to see his friend go through what he has so far. He said that his relationship with Cech goes beyound the sporting side and mentioned that choosing the No.1 goalkeeper is manager’s decision.

“It’s not easy because you’ve got a goalkeeper like Petr who is at the top of his form. I have a relationship with Petr, who is a special person. We’ve been working together (at Chelsea) for eight years. Our relationship goes beyond just the sporting side. There is always that moment when a young goalkeeper arrives.” he said.

“The decision to make Thibaut No1 is the manager’s (Jose Mourinho). Then, if it’s a question of rotation, we might discuss it. But above all, it’s the manager’s call. We have two of the best three keepers in the world. It’s an advantage. Whether you start with one or the other, it doesn’t change anything.” he added.

“Either way, the opponent has a phenomenal goalkeeper against them. We speak a lot. We’re talking about clever lads. Petr helps Thibaut. He is not going to drop banana skins in front of him.“

“At half time we all talk together. After matches too.Petr is doing well, even though his current situation is not that easy. We’re talking about someone remarkable, with values, who is not going to hide away because he’s lost his No1 spot. He keeps working as if he is going to play every weekend.”

I guess if you think about it, we were always going to end up with this situation at the end of the current season after the coverage the battle with Thibaut Courtois at the beginning of the year. Both have played well when called upon this season and the fact that Cech was handed the start in the League Cup final was a really nice touch from Jose.

That's what has really impressed me about Petr Cech. It's only been recently that he has given an interview and openly stated that he doesn't want a repeat of this season. Credit to him for that.

It would have been easy to complain to the press about his lack of first team football or even force a move back in the January transfer window - but he didn't and that speaks volumes. The fact that as Lollichon revealed, Cech continues to train hard as if he is playing is also a credit to the Czech Goalkeeper.

I have said it before on here and will say it again. Petr Cech should be given a freedom of choice to join whoever he wants in the summer because of the service he has given to our club. I hope he gets that!