Chelsea fullback Ashley Cole says being top of the league is a big boost after victory over Stoke City.

The left-back popped up in the box to score the only goal of the game with just a few minutes remaining and now he hopes it signals the Blues' intent for the season ahead.

"Mentally that is good for us," he said. "Last season we didn't have too good a time in the Premier League, it has taken two years for us to be top of the league again and hopefully we can stay there, but it is a long way to go."