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Bridge praise for Ranieri

Wayne Bridge has thanked outgoing Chelsea manager Claudio Ranieri for turning him into a better footballer since his move from Southampton.

The England full back was lured to Stamford Bridge last summer and quickly established himself as a first choice in Ranieri's line-up.

Though Ranieri's own position at the club is doomed, Bridge has nothing but praise for the Italian coach.

Bridge has enjoyed playing a different brand of football since his switch from St Mary's and feels Ranieri played an instrumental role in his development.

"I was playing a completely different style of football at Southampton," said Bridge.

"Since coming to Chelsea I've had to be more composed and keep possession. You are more confident just because you are at a bigger club.

"He (Ranieri) showed he believed in me and that gives a player confidence.

"If you make a mistake, he always pulls you to one side and talks to you about it and if you do things well, he praises you."