Following a prolonged period of circling speculation regarding Petr Cech, his fate is at long last sealed. Over the past eleven years, the experienced Czech reached heights unprecedented in the royal blue of Chelsea ensuring his reputation as a Chelsea great. During years of unparalleled success, Cech established himself as an distinguished figure, a commanding presence on and off the field. His gracious manner, and expertise in goal warranted his status as a fan favourite. Furthermore, all these factors contribute to the dejection and lethargy that Chelsea supporters feel.

Petr’s first season in the Barclays Premier League was remarkable, adorned with both personal and team triumphs. Cech managed to dismantle the well-respected Carlo Cudicini. Indeed, Cech’s contribution to the 04/05 title campaign was significant, sentineling the goal as our last line of defence. His success was reflected in personal attainments, he recorded the highest total of minutes without conceding a goal in addition to winning the golden glove. On the basis of his performances alone, it was evident that Petr Cech was a magnificent player.

The following season, Cech merited himself as a world-class talent. On average Cech conceded 0.65 goals per game, having represented the blues on 34 occasions conceding only 22 goals, it was apparent that Cech’s prophecy was not premature. Petr Cech’s accomplished performances was rewarded with a whole host of prestigious rewards such as the Czech player of the year.

For the next few years Cech, continued to achieve, and one every possible domestic competition as Chelsea defeated Manchester United 1-0 in the FA Cup Final. Despite, the increasing list of honours and his enriched profile, Cech began to sustain injuries. Most notably, Stephen Hunt’s challenge that fractured Cech’s skull, which resulted in the use of his headgear. An incident involving defender Tal-Ben Haim, saw Cech undergo surgery to his chin. Despite these physical restrictions, his defiance and resolve ensured that he persevered to achieve further greatness. Such as the triumphant 2009/10 campaign, which under the guidance of the knowledgeable Carlo Ancelotti the blues were steered towards a domestic double.

During Cech’s flourishing career, one achievement had eluded him, the

most prestigious prize in European Football… The Champions League. Following a serious of past devastations, one in particular cozened by corruption, the desire to achieve was unrivalled. There was a consensus, a vision amongst everyone affiliated with Chelsea Football Club, that if the club intended to cement their status as one of Europe’s elites, the Champions League had to be positioned in the club’s trophy cabinet.

Petr Cech’s involvement in the 2011/12 UCL campaign was beyond crucial, it was indispensable. On numerous occasions in the campaign Cech’s solidity and experience had resurrected situations and restored hope and belief, amongst his fellow players and supporters. His vital contribution lives long in the memory, having displayed his heroics on countless occasions. Most famously saving Bastian Schweinsteiger’s penalty. His name will forever be engraved into Chelsea history considering his participation in the club’s first Champions League triumph.

Despite the club, not fulfilling achievements the subsequent season, Cech tasted European success yet again having lifted the UEFA Europa League title.

The return of Jose Mourinho, saw the club through a transition period in which the club came agonisingly close to securing a place in the UCL final in addition to a fourth BPL title. Yet, from his personal perspective the special one’s return was bitter sweet as the Portuguese favoured Thibaut Courtois as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper, consequently despite another successful campaign insufficient game time and a desire not to relocate, saw Cech depart the club, much to the dismay of the Chelsea faithful.

Regardless of current circumstances, nothing will ever detract from Cech’s achievements and contribution to Chelsea’s success during the Roman era. Undeniably, Petr Cech has played a significant role for the past eleven years and the letter published yesterday, epitomises Cech’s class and sophistication. The memories formed are there to be cherished for a life-time and the club and supporters are indefinitely indebted to Cech for his service to the club. Petr Cech is, and will forever remain a Chelsea legend.

Llion Carbis

@carbislli