"This rumour that all the players we've signed have been chosen by Sven -- it's utter rubbish. Claudio wanted Geremi, Wayne Bridge and Damien Duff last season. Claudio has had to pick up the pieces and make some big decisions.
"He did that at Valencia, so I knew he would have no problems with Chelsea. Reputations don't mean a thing to him. You are only as good as your last game in his eyes.
"He is a very strong manager and a very strong man."