He said: “After the impact of the Mourinho departure, the Valencia win gave the team the kiss of life.
“How could I not be emotional when he brought me to England, to the best league in the world?
“He was always protecting me. I had a good season last year because Mourinho and the team were behind me.
“I’m still in touch with him, the relationship is good. It’s important to keep in touch with people you worked with for four years.
“If you are not happy to be somewhere it is difficult to give 100 per cent.
“Now I’m giving 100 per cent because I feel good. I love the fans — they show me the respect I deserve.”
Drogba insisted: “I hope our win in Valencia made the other big sides around Europe, plus the teams in our group, sit up and take notice — Chelsea are on the march.
“If Valencia are to overtake us in Group B, they they must come to London and beat us. Good luck to them if we are in this form!”
