Chelsea midfielder Oscar says he is fully focused on building both fitness and form ahead of the start of the new campaign.

The Brazilian linked up with the Blues at the Cobham on Monday after returning from his summer break.

The 24-year-old explains why he is pleased to be playing football once more, reports the Chelsea website.

‘My summer was really nice, I stayed in Brazil with my family and we did a lot of travelling within the country so it was very enjoyable,’ Oscar said.

‘I watched a lot of football during my time off. I saw the Copa America, Euro’s, and some Brazilian matches. I was impressed with Antonio Conte’s Italy at the Euros, they played very well and were unlucky to lose on penalties to a good Germany team.

‘I missed playing and I’m glad to be back. We are all training really hard and looking forward to the pre-season matches.

‘Training has been very hard because it was a long break for me. But that’s what pre-season is all about, getting fit for the matches.’

The former Internacional midfielder believes that the Blues will improve during the new season under coach Antonio Conte.

‘I really liked it and I think the team are really going to improve a lot this season,’ he says.

‘He’s very clear about what he wants from us. He spoke to everyone and it was very tactical with some good movements from the players.’

During a disappointing 2015-16 season with Chelsea following a 10th place finish on the Premier league table, Oscar netted eight goals and assisted a further five from 40 appearances in all competitions.