Chelsea midfielder Jorginho believes he is now a better player because of the experience of playing in the Premier League last season.
The Italian followed former Blues' boss Maurizio Sarri from Napoli to join Chelsea last summer and had an inconsistent first season at the club. The 27-year-old has started every game under new head coach Frank Lampard and has earned praise for his performances this season.
He made 57 appearances in all competitions during 2018/19 and has claimed that that game time has been vital in his development as a player.
“I think I had a fantastic first season and it was fundamental for my growth process. I am stronger in defence now, I go into challenges with more determination and control the game," he said, as reported by Football Italia .
"The Premier League has forced me to develop different skills."
Jorginho is currently on international duty with Italy a 3-1 win over Armenia on Thursday is followed by a game against Finland, and as he is doing with his club side, the midfielder is determined to prove his international manager is right by believing in him
“Roberto Mancini is putting his faith in me for the Nazionale and I am trying to prove on the field that I deserve that," he said.
" I think more than anything I just had the characteristics to suit his idea of football.
“I’d love to score a goal tomorrow, but I’d be even happier if we came away with three points.”
Jorginho has also picked out a certain Premier League player who Italy will need to be wary of when they face Finland on Sunday.
“Pukki has a bit of everything, which makes him a complete striker. He times his runs well, is very intelligent in his positioning, runs hard, presses opponents and never stops moving,
“He protects the ball, can provide assists, he really is dangerous. It’s no coincidence that he’s the current Premier League top scorer.”
