Jose Mourinho says he needs to 'protect' new signing Mohamed Salah, because he is the baby of his Chelsea squad.

The 21-year-old, signed from FC Basel in the January transfer window, scored his first goal for the Blues on Saturday – the final nail in Arsenal's coffin as they were thumped 6-0.

Mourinho, who had remained largely calm on the touchline throughout the rout, was seen to celebrate the Egyptian's goal wildly – punching the air in delight.

The Blues' boss said the goal was vitally important for the speedy winger, who has failed to make much of an impression since his move to Chelsea.

“Salah’s (goal) was very important for his confidence,” said Mourinho.

“He’s a kid, like a baby really. He needs so much protection and support from all of us, the players are being fantastic with him so step by step we’re getting there.”

The goal was not Salah's first at Stamford Bridge – having scored there for Basel in both the Europa League and the Champions League during 2013.