Ivanovic wants Chelsea to push on after Manchester United draw

The Serbian defender is satisfied with the Blues' start to the campaign but urges them to improve on the attacking side of their game in the weeks to come

Branislav Ivanovic is content with Chelsea's start to the season but believes there is more to come.

The Blues picked up an impressive clean sheet against Manchester United on Monday and he considers the defensive effort a platform to kick on this season.

The Serbian scored the winner in the previous game against Aston Villa, but acknowledges the need for Jose Mourinho's men to be more clinical in front of goal.

"The manager has his ideas, knows what players he wants and needs in the squad, and we are improving with the new players, the young guys," he told reporters.

"[Andre] Schurrle played very well and all our front line ran a lot [against Manchester United]. Maybe that was the key.

 

"It was a very difficult, physical game, with a lot of small details. It was important not to concede a goal and to try to play on the counter-attack.

"They played with four strikers and it was very difficult for us. We're happy with the clean sheet.

"It's easier this way and we will improve a lot on the attacking side. It's good to have confidence in the back four and to have opportunities for the young guys in front to improve a lot and show their potential.

 

"We worked extremely hard in pre-season and this is the result, but it's still the beginning and we are looking to the next games which will be very difficult."

Ivanovic feels there is unity in the squad under Mourinho, and says it is a "pleasure" to work with him.

"It's a pleasure and amazing to work with him but in another way it is very difficult because he is looking for small details, and he is perfect in looking for details in the game, he's a perfectionist and you have to be ready for that," he added. 

 

"He always asks you for one step, one run more, to give something extra for the team, and it's a pleasure."