Frank Lampard has said that Chelsea deserve tonight's Europa League success, but none more so than match winner Branislav Ivanovic.
The Blues defeated Benfica 2-1 to clinch the trophy in Amsterdam.
It was Ivanovic's last-minute header that sealed glory for Rafael Benitez's men, and Lampard paid homage to the Serb, who missed last year's Champions League final through suspension.
"It's been an amazing time for all of us involved," the 34-year-old told ITV Sport. "We're a group, a team, and it was tight tonight after the long season we've had.
"No-one deserves this more than Ivanovic - he has been fantastic. You make your own luck, and we stick together in this group. The club deserve it."
Lampard, who stood in as captain due to John Terry's absence, turned attention to his own future, which has been the subject of uncertainty in recent weeks.
Some reports have hinted at a possible one-year extension, and the England international reiterated his desire to stay at Stamford Bridge.
"I really, really hope to be around next year," he added.
"With a game tonight and coming up we haven't sat down and signed anything, but I really hope so and things are looking good. The club have been brilliant."
The box-to-box midfielder has now won every trophy possible during his time in West London.
Michael Penkman
