Chelsea defender David Luiz says he's a better player for working with manager Rafa Benitez.

The 25-year-old Brazil international has emerged as Chelsea's first-choice defender in recent weeks and scored a stunning 35-yard goal in the 3-0 Barclays Premier League win at Fulham on Wednesday night.

Luiz told Chelsea TV: "I try my best all the time. Rafa Benitez has helped me a lot.

"I love the philosophy he puts to the Chelsea players.

"He changed my game and helped a lot. He loves football and he sees football like me.

"He wants to play with the ball, he wants to press high and wants to try things.

"He gives me confidence to try some things, like shots and passes to help the team.

"He knows my football, so I like that."