The 25-year-old returned to the starting XI against the Magpies on Monday evening, as goals from Nicolas Jackson, Cole Palmer and Mykhailo Mudryk secured three important points at Stamford Bridge.

After suffering an ankle injury in December, the Spaniard has worked tirelessly to get himself back to full fitness as the Blues edge towards the business end of the season.

Speaking after the match at the Bridge, Cucurella explained that it had been a testing road for him but expressed his delight to help the side during his first start since picking up his injury last year.

‘It’s not easy when you’re a player and you’re out injured – it’s difficult,’ Cucurella began.

‘I tried to work hard and put everything into my work. I had the opportunity to play and I’m really happy that I could help the team and stay on the pitch. Hopefully, it’s the first game of many.

‘I think the team played really well. We dominated the game, but we conceded two easy goals and I think we need to improve on this. We deserved the win and I’m very happy for the team.’

Although the full-back was pleased with the positive result, Cucurella recognised that there is a need for continuous development as we head towards Sunday's FA Cup quarter-final against Leicester City.

He continued: ‘We need to improve a little bit. A few times we have conceded easy goals, but I think it’s part of the game.

‘We need to work hard, continue at this level and if we stay together and focus then we can compete with a lot of teams. Between now and the end of the season, we need to improve a little bit, get a lot of wins and get higher up in the table.

‘We have a lot of energy and are focused on this game [against Leicester]. We have a big chance to play again at Wembley for the second time this season and I think it’s very important for us.

‘We will try to do our best and the win against Newcastle is important because it will build our confidence to play the game on Sunday. The team is ready.’