Nemanja Matic has revealed that missing out on a Premier League winners medal with Chelsea in 2010 has intensified his ambition to win one this season.
The Serbia international was not entitled to a memento of the club's successful 2009-10 campaign under Carlo Ancelotti after making just two league appearances.
Matic's final match for the Blues before re-signing in January came in the emphatic 8-0 victory over Wigan Athletic on the last day of that season, and the 25-year-old hopes to be present for more celebrations in May knowing that he has played a part.
"I will always remember that Wigan game and how it was an amazing day for the club and all of us to celebrate the title," Matic told the London Evening Standard.
"But it would be much more special if I win the league with Chelsea this year because I would have made a bigger contribution. I think it's normal to feel that way.
"When you play more and are a part of the team, it is more special for you. It feels better than when you don't give something. All the players back then helped me a lot and tried to make me feel part of the celebrations but it's not quite the same as the position I'm in now."
Jose Mourinho's men currently sit top of the standings, four points clear of Arsenal and Liverpool, both of whom have played a game less.
The former Benfica midfielder has made nine appearances for the South Londoners since re-joining the Stamford Bridge.
Shane Callaghan
