Jose Mourinho has described Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech as an "institution", amid speculation surrounding his future at the club.
The Czech shot-stopper has been the second-choice keeper behind Thibaut Courtois this season, and has reportedly been allowed to leave in the summer.
Despite rumoured interest from Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain, Mourinho highlighted his appreciation for the keeper's services.
Mourinho told reporters: "Petr is not a player - he's an institution. Ten years in goal, going through everything he went through, great moments and sad moments, dying on the pitch.
"Chelsea gave him a lot, but for what he is giving to the club still, he deserves a special perspective."
Cech joined Chelsea from Rennes in 2004.