Willian inspired to lead Chelsea to title in memory of mother

Brazilian star Willian has been inspired to lead Chelsea to Premier League glory in memory of his mother.

Willian's mother died in October after she lost her battle with brain cancer, with the Brazil international granted compassionate leave to spend time at home.

The 28-year-old has since returned to the fold as high-flying Chelsea continue to top the table by six points.

Opening up about the loss of his mother, Willian said: "It's been a ­difficult time for me. I lost my mum, and it has been very difficult emotionally.

"She was a very important person in my life and will always be important to me. After she died, I stayed in Brazil a week.

"Since I came back, slowly I have started to feel better and to feel I can play for the team again. Now I have to think only about the good things and to keep working and keep playing. That’s all I want to do.

"It was difficult for me against Crystal Palace, especially after a long time without playing 90 minutes. We did well to win again, and now we have to keep doing the same thing again: winning, winning, taking it game by game."