Chelsea chief Ron Gourlay has welcomed Jose Mourinho's return.

Gourlay insists moving to bring back the self-proclaimed 'Special One' was the only option as he looked to take the club on following the reign of interim manager Rafael Benitez.

"I am delighted to welcome Jose back to Chelsea. His continued success, drive and ambition made him the outstanding candidate," Gourlay said on the club's official website, chelseafc.com.

"It is our aim to keep the club moving forward to achieve greater success in the future and Jose is our number one choice as we believe he is the right manager to do just that.

"He was and remains a hugely popular figure at the club and everyone here looks forward to working with him again."