Valencia 1, Chelsea 2.

John Terry believed Chelsea's 2-1 Champions League victory in Valencia showed the team was back on track after a traumatic spell following the departure of Jose Mourinho.

The Blues went behind to David Villa's early goal but Joe Cole levelled before Didier Drogba got a second-half winner.

The England skipper admitted the team's form had suffered recently.

He said: ''We haven't been performing as well as we'd have liked, but we had a great team spirit tonight. Maybe we had lost it a bit, it's been difficult.

''We've had to pick ourselves up and look to move forward.

''We hope it's the kick start we need after we've had a few iffy performances.''

The Blues won by the same scoreline at the Mestalla in last year's quarter-final and Terry believes last night's victory was better.

''I think it was,'' he said. ''We fought back and came right back into the game.

''We had many great performances and needed that collective effort.''

The Chelsea captain also insisted he had had no problem wearing the protective mask on his face.

''I just had to get used to it in training and it felt quite comfortable.''

Manager Avram Grant reiterated his satisfaction with the approach of his players.

The Israeli has been under the spotlight following Mourinho's exit but he underlined his side's commitment.

He said: ''You saw the attitude in the last two weeks, it has been difficult, but it was good. I keep telling you I'm very happy with the attitude.''

Victory took the Blues to the top of Group B and Grant continued: ''Very good, it's nice to be at the top.

''We came here to win the game so I'm happy.''

Joe Cole echoed Terry's sentiments when he agreed the win surpassed the victory last year which earned them a place in the semi-finals.

''I think so,'' he said. ''A lot has happened over the last month, we needed a win.

''It was a fantastic defensive display, two goals and a great win, a great confidence booster.

''We showed the spirit and character from everyone to turn round after that early goal.''

The former West Ham player did not celebrate his equaliser and explained: ''We were so convinced we were going to get a win that I'd celebrate then.

''It's been a while since I've scored.

"I nearly missed the game but I'm feeling good now.''