Chelsea midfielder Jorginho admits he's a Palmeiras REJECT.

Jorginho, who was born in Brazil, was rejected by Saturday's Club World Cup opponents in Abu Dhabi early on his career.

And as the Italy international bids to add to a trophy-laden past year, which has seen him become a European champion for both club and country, he outlined his history with Palmeiras.

Jorginho said: “Let me tell you something not a lot of people know. The connection I have with Palmeiras is that I trialled for for the team when I was 12 and did not make the team.

“That is the only memory I have of Palmeiras.

“That is what football is like. We are here 18 years later to compete at a Club World Cup Final against Palmeiras and it is crazy - and also why football is so beautiful.

“Everything happens for a reason. Maybe it was better this way.

“Anything I can seek to give me motivation and to help me and try to fight that is what I will do."