Jose Mourinho gave his players a collective pat on the back for managing to eke out a win against Everton when they were not at their best.

John terry's injury time winner was enough to tip the scales in a game of few chances that neither side really deserved to win.

"We had to fight today, “ Mourinho said. “The players did everything. The team has some obvious limitations, but they wanted to win. Even had we not scored I would have had a positive feeling about the team.

"We had a few good positions where we could shoot on goal in the first half, but  after that, Everton were in control.

"They are the kind of team that is very comfortable on the ball. They kept it well, even of they didn't create many chances. They had quality in possession and it was tough game.”

Mourinho said Oscar was withdrawn at half-time because of a slight injury and it allowed him to regain a measure of control with the introduction of Ramires.
"I needed to control the game," said the Blues' boss.

"Because my team is not one that scores lots of goals. If they had scored before us, I'm not sure we could have scored two goals. That is why I brought on Ramires at half-time.

“We regained control of the match and for the last 20 minutes we were strong, we pressed and dominated.

“One could talk about being lucky, but the boys chased for it. I feel sorry for Everton as they played well and could have taken a point. But we were the team that was trying to win.”