Chelsea vs Arsenal: Gary Cahill opens up on his feelings after ending Blues career with Europa League final win
England defender leaves Chelsea after more than seven years with the club and was able to lift the Europa League trophy despite being exiled from
Your support helps us to tell the story
This election is still a dead heat, according to most polls. In a fight with such wafer-thin margins, we need reporters on the ground talking to the people Trump and Harris are courting. Your support allows us to keep sending journalists to the story.
The Independent is trusted by 27 million Americans from across the entire political spectrum every month. Unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock you out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. But quality journalism must still be paid for.
Help us keep bring these critical stories to light. Your support makes all the difference.
Chelsea's outgoing club captain Gary Cahill was proud to help lift the Europa League in his final match before embarking on a new challenge.
When brought in from Bolton for £7m in January 2012, neither player nor club could have imagined just how successful his stint at Stamford Bridge would be.
Cahill added a second a Europa League title to his Champions League winners' medal and numerous domestic honours on Wednesday as Maurizio Sarri's Blues swatted aside London rivals Arsenal 4-1.
The 33-year-old did not come on for a farewell appearance in the Baku Olympic Stadium finale, but skipper Cesar Azpilicueta made sure that the pair lifted the trophy together.
"It was a fantastic experience, great to be involved in a great end to the season," Cahill said.
"The lads deserved to win the game. It was a great feeling, lifting the trophy, and being a part of this group that's gone on to finish the season very well is pleasing.
"There are celebrations tonight and out with a bang."
It was nice way to end a season that did not go to plan following his role in England's run to the World Cup semi-finals.
Cahill often found himself on the outside looking in at Chelsea, making just eight appearances in all competitions under Sarri.
The defender, who had the chance to leave in January, will move this summer at the end of his contract and is confident of getting another crack at Premier League football next season.
"I want to go away on holiday for a few weeks and then I'll come back and see what options there are for me," Cahill said.
"I'm confident that potentially I might stay in the league but I want to wait and see, take the decision over the summer.
"I've got a lot of time to think about things and hopefully make the right decision. I can't wait to get back playing next season. I'm looking forward to that."
But wherever Cahill ends up, the experienced defender will be sure to keep a close eye on matters at Stamford Bridge.
"To qualify for the Champions League is a great achievement and something that was a target for the lads," he added.
"But to finish with a trophy is what they played for throughout the whole season.
"Looking forward, we have to see what happens with the (transfer) ban and see how that plays out, but we're looking forward to the young players coming through. They're very exciting.
"I'm sure the fans will embrace that and the lads who are still here. I see the squad being able to build again and move forward."
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments