Azpilicueta: Chelsea’s stronger squad will outlast Arsenal

Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta believes the Blues have a stronger squad than Arsenal and are more prepared to fight for the Premier League title.

The Spanish full-back scored in his side’s 2-0 victory at the Emirates last night as the Blues advanced to the quarter-finals of the Capital One Cup at Arsenal’s expense.

Despite Jose Mourinho making 10 changes to the side that beat Manchester City on Sunday, Chelsea dominated Arsenal throughout to knock them out of the cup.

Chelsea trail Arsenal by two points in the Premier League but Arsenal’s second home defeat on the run may weaken them slightly as Liverpool prepare to visit north London this weekend.

Azpilicueta was asked if Chelsea’s win means they have a stronger squad than Arsenal, he told Sky Sports: “Yes. We felt really confident on the pitch and did a very good game. We controlled most of the game. We had two or three more chances but the feeling inside of us was that we were dominating Arsenal in their stadium and they are top of the table, so it’s very nice.

“They had some injuries and we are without Marco van Ginkel but we have a really good squad. Every player can play, we try to do our best in every game we play, to give 100 per cent and to keep fighting for titles. We need to arrive at the end of the season with chances to win every trophy.”

The Spaniard opened the scoring in last night’s victory, making just his third appearance of the season but insists he is happy under Mourinho.

“Last season I didn’t start it playing and then after I played virtually every game. This season is similar. The manager is playing with Branislav Ivanovic but I’m training very happily, I feel confidence with him [Mourinho]. It’s true that I’m not playing a lot, but the season is long.”