RICCY: WE ARE THINKING ABOUT WINNING

The current Chelsea squad boasts a wealth of Champions League experience, with no fewer than four of our players having won the trophy before. One of them, Ricardo Carvalho, has given his reaction to this year's draw.

'They are not easy teams to play against, we know more or less Valencia because we played last year, and Schalke is a good team and had a good season. Rosenborg I don't know so much, but the first game is at home so that is good,' said the defender, who starred in José Mourinho's Porto team that was triumphant in 2004.

The final that year was played at Schalke, as the Portuguese side ran out 3-0 winners over Monaco.

'It was at Schalke, history is good there. It was a great atmosphere, it's good to recall and play there again,' explained Carvalho.

On Valencia, who we faced in last season's quarter finals, he said: 'Last season was difficult, but this time two teams can go through so it's different. They're a good Spanish team, they have quality. Last year we won, and I think we deserved to go through. This season we have to show again we have a great team.'

Carvalho's Champions League experiences can rival many in the European club game, and he knows the difference between success and failure in the competition can be minute.

'I've been to the semi final twice with Chelsea and had good experience. Of course I won with Porto, that's my best football moment so far, I think. It's a competition some players can't get, and its difficult to get it, it's a pleasure to have that medal.

'Last season, we didn't have the luck with us because we missed penalties, so let's see.

'When we start we are thinking about winning the Champions League because it's important for us, but you must have a little bit of luck. After 90 minutes in the group stage, if you don't play well you can't go out so you have a little bit of room, you need that.

Finally, Riccy believes it is important to get off to the right start. He said: 'It's important in this competition to start winning, at home you have to win and try your best away. The sooner you get the points the better.'