Thursday 6 August 2015 19:53, UK
Radamel Falcao has claimed that the Premier League is the most physically demanding in Europe as he bids to prove himself at Chelsea following his disappointing spell with Manchester United.
The Colombia striker joined the reigning champions on a season-long loan from Monaco in the summer, despite enduring a tough campaign in a similar deal at Old Trafford last time around, where he netted only four goals in 29 appearances.
Chelsea captain John Terry and manager Jose Mourinho have already spoken of their faith in Falcao, who could play in Saturday's opener with Swansea as doubts remain over the fitness of Diego Costa.
"It's a lot more physical here than anywhere else in Europe," Falcao said on chelseafc.com.
"It's a very, very competitive league where each team gives absolutely everything they've got in every game they play.
"It demands 100 per cent of your ability and focus because it is very competitive, very physical and tactical too.
"Maybe the football philosophy is a little different here in that it is always about getting the ball forward and there is less time when teams are just trying to control the ball and take the heat out of the game.
"Once you get to know your team-mates, you all know when it is the right time to put your foot on the ball and take the heat out of the game and when it is the right time to go forward, all out."
Falcao believes he knows his team-mates well following Chelsea's pre-season tour to the United States.
He added: "It helped to go away on tour with my new team-mates.
"The atmosphere in the squad here is very good, they are very friendly with me and everybody gave me a big welcome."
Watch Chelsea v Swansea live on Sky Sports 1 from 5pm on Saturday, August 8.
