Mata targets Olympic role

Chelsea playmaker happy with life at Stamford Bridge

Juan Mata: Believes it would be the perfect summer for him to play at the Euros and Olympics

Juan Mata has set his sights on playing at both Euro 2012 and the Olympics this summer after settling in quicker than expected at Chelsea.

Mata made the move to Stamford Bridge from Valencia in August and, although the Blues have struggled for consistency, he has produced a series of impressive performances.
He was anticipating a challenge in terms of adapting to his new surroundings, but has enjoyed his first few months in England.
"For me, this move was an important change in my life as a person as much as a player," the 23-year-old explained in the Daily Mail.
"I thought it would be harder. It's not too cold, not snowing.
"It was an opportunity to know another city, another country, another culture and another language."

Perfect summer

While many players could be forgiven for starting to think about having a break in May at the end of a long season, Mata is looking forward to a busy period for Spain.
He is desperate to be involved in their European Championship campaign but also hopes to fulfil a lifelong ambition by taking part in the London Olympics.
"It would be a long season but I am young," he said.
"For me, it would be the perfect summer to play in the Euros and then the Olympics. My desire is to play in both.
"It is something most players can only do once in their lives. Now it is our time.
"It would be the dream summer to win the Olympics and the Euros."