Chelsea defender Alex admits Jose Mourinho's departure earlier this season did create some upheaval.

"There was a lot of confusion," said Alex referring to his former manager's swift departure. "It was very hard.

"Everyone was used to Mourinho. He played a big role in my coming here and was very good to me when I arrived. He made a big impression on me and helped my game," he added.

"There were some difficult times but now it has passed and we go forward... We are creeping up and keeping in touch with the leaders which is the important thing."

Under Avram Grant and his assistants Steve Clarke and Henk ten Cate, whose grasp of Spanish has also come in handy for Alex, Chelsea have notched up a 16-match unbeaten streak.

The Brazilian believes they can play even better.

"We know we can still improve. If you are a professional you have to improve all the time...even with the injury problems"