Antonio Conte has highlighted the importance of Oscar and feels the Brazilian's defensive contribution in midfield is crucial to Chelsea.
The 25-year-old endured a difficult 2015-16 campaign as he made just 20 Premier League starts and was regularly criticised by the club's fans.
"I always thought this team needed to find a good balance when you have possession of the ball and when you do not have possession and last season Chelsea conceded 55 goals," Conte told reporters.
"Oscar is a good player with great technique and can do both phases, offensive and defensive.
"Now I ask him to always stay focused in the game because he is an important player for Chelsea. He is a good passer and he can score goals. He is in my plan and in Chelsea's plan."
"I feel very fit, physically as strong as ever and I have done a lot of running in the games, have won my duels and am showing my strength," he said.
