25 April 2007, by Sean Gillen

Mourinho praises unsung hero Carvalho

Ronaldo reveals he is also big fan of compatriot

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho says that Portuguese defender Ricardo Carvalho is currently enjoying his best season with the club.

Since arriving in England in 2004 from Porto, Carvalho has firmly established himself as one of the Premiership’s finest defenders, with Mourinho often singling him out as an unsung hero of the Chelsea side.

“It is Ricardo’s best season with me,” said Mourinho of his compatriot who has also contributed some crucial goals during the campaign.

“For a long period there was no Petr Cech behind him, no John Terry alongside him and no Michael Essien in front and he was amazing.”

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo is also a fan of the 28-year-old, with the winger admitting that he voted for his countryman at this year’s PFA Player of the Year.

Ronaldo won both the senior and the young awards at a ceremony on Sunday, but he revealed that it was Carvalho that earned his vote for his superb performances at Stamford Bridge throughout the season.

“For the young player I voted Fabregas, and for player of the season – Carvalho,” said Ronaldo before receiving his accolade.

“Why Carvalho? Because I think he does an amazing job for Chelsea. He defends very well and sometimes he scores goals, which I think it very important for a defender.”

Related article: Ricardo Carvalho PortuGOAL profile