Speaking ahead of this afternoon`s game, Cesar Azpilicueta has said a victory would be a fitting tribute to Ray Wilkins on what will be an emotional afternoon in West London. Commenting on the Official Chelsea Website, Azpi said,
I would like to personally pay tribute to Ray and for what he did for football, especially at our club, and my condolences go out to his family. I think the way he supported and loved the club was fantastic and, as well as a minute`s applause, I think winning the game would be the best way to say thanks to him and his family for everything he has done for Chelsea.`
‘We all know how important he was for this club and especially for a lot of our players, as he played a big role for them. We have young players here that have come through the academy that knew him very well and even though I didn`t get to meet him personally, I am fully aware of what he did for this football club. Everybody has spoken only good words about him and people hold him very highly in their thoughts.`
Fine words from our Spanish defender, it`s surprising the two never met though. I guess Wilkins is so ingrained in Chelsea Football Club, it`s difficult to imagine him not being part of what is going on now.
Looking ahead to the game the Spaniard knows we`ve not been good enough this season,
`Everyone has been frustrated with the amount of games we have lost this season and that is why we haven`t been able to retain our Premier League title. But we are continuing to fight until the end of the season and to give our all to try and finish in the top four.`
But the players and manager have set themselves a target that they believe is achievable.
‘Everyone is pushing to get into the team and get the results we want. There is still hope to get into the top four and there are many points still to take.`
`It`s a lot harder now, that`s just the reality of things, but we will always fight until the end. We want to have a perfect end by winning every game for the rest of the season, as that is our target. Then it`s down to the rest of the teams to stay ahead of us.`
Hopefully, Chelsea can win this afternoon for Ray, his family, the fans, players and colleagues who loved him. Let`s do this for Ray.
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