Jorrel Hato has declared Chelsea are fully focused on securing European football ahead of a decisive final-day showdown against Sunderland.
The Blues boosted their hopes with a crucial victory over Tottenham Hotspur earlier this week, leaving qualification for Europe firmly in their own hands heading into Sunday’s clash at the Stadium of Light.
Chelsea currently sit eighth in the Premier League standings and could still climb above Brighton & Hove Albion if results go their way.
However, Sunderland also remain in contention and would leapfrog the Blues with a win on the final day.
“We knew we had two big games left in the league after the Cup final and we had to get six points,” said the Dutch defender.
“We did the first half against Tottenham and now Sunday is the second half. Sunderland will be a tough game but it’s an important one to end up as high as possible.
“We have a good chance. We know what we need to do. We need three points to secure a European spot. We are going there on Sunday to win the game. Chelsea’s a big club, so we have to be in Europe.”
The 20-year-old has emerged as one of Chelsea’s most reliable performers during the second half of the campaign after initially struggling to adapt following his move from AFC Ajax.
Hato admitted the transition to English football was far from straightforward but says his confidence has grown significantly in recent months.
“I would lie if I say the first couple of months were easy, because they weren’t,” Hato acknowledged.
“It was a difficult time but the second half of the season you saw the better side of me. I’ve showed my qualities, the ones I showed in Ajax.
“I’ve improved a lot, with my confidence as well, and that’s why I’m playing now.”
Chelsea supporters are also looking ahead to a new era under incoming manager Xabi Alonso, who officially takes charge on July 1.
Hato welcomed the appointment and expressed excitement about working under the former Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich midfielder.
“I have played in a back three, in a back four and a back five. For me it doesn’t matter where I play, I just want to play.
“He’s a great manager, he was a great player as well. He did very well at Liverpool, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
“It’s good news for us that we have a manager at the start of the season. Of course our focus is on Sunday’s game but we are excited for next season.”
Victory against Sunderland would cap an encouraging end to the campaign for Chelsea and secure their return to European competition after an inconsistent domestic season.
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