Chelsea: Jose Mourinho hails playmaker Oscar to replicate evolution of Eden Hazard

Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is confident Oscar will replicate Eden Hazard's evolution at Stamford Bridge next season even though the Brazilian midfielder has been heavily linked with a move away from the west London club.

The 23-year-old playmaker has been a regular in Mourinho's line-up during his two campaigns at Stamford Bridge, making 26 starting Premier League appearances this season while scoring six goals.

But having faded during the second part of this season, recent reports claimed the manager was looking at letting him go in the summer, like he did with the likes of Juan Mata and Andre Schurrle, in order to fund moves for new additions.

But the Portuguese boss has tried to play down those reports claiming Oscar is not only going to stay at the club, he will follow the footsteps of the Premier League player of the year.

Mourinho believes the recent injury sustained by Oscar, which will see him miss the Copa America, will help him get plenty of deserved rest in the summer and start pre-season with plenty of energy.

"Someone like Oscar, for example, is a fabulous player but he's never had a pre-season in his life. He's always been playing in tournaments everywhere, he's never had a rest," the manager said.

"Now, because he's injured he's not going to the Copa America and I have a feeling that next year Oscar can have the same kind of evolution as Hazard had this season. I'm happy with my squad and I have to respect the people that gave us the title.

"The first thing I want is to keep my players and I think we will do that. Last year I was keen to see some people leave and for the club to raise funds. This season I'm so happy with what my team gave me that what's fundamental is to keep my players and try to get the best out of them."