Juan Mata thanks Villas-Boas

Chelsea winger Juan Mata has thanked former manager Andre Villas-Boas for his work at Stamford Bridge.

After a string of disappointing results, Villas-Boas was sacked on Sunday after nine months in charge.

"It hasn't been an easy day for those who, like me, are part of Chelsea," Mata wrote on his official Facebook page.

"I would like to thank the manager and wish him luck.

"We have to keep working hard and better days will come. Thanks for your support!"

Villas-Boas signed Mata from Valencia over the summer for around £23m.