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Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic says side's winning mentality is returning

Image: Branislav Ivanovic: Serbia defender pleased with Chelsea spirit after draining spell of games and travel

Branislav Ivanovic has called on his Chelsea team-mates to show more of the mentality that saw them bounce back from defeat in the Club World Cup final.

Ivanovic is wary of the threat posed by Aston Villa, who pulled off a major shock last weekend with their 3-1 win away at Liverpool, in what will be Chelsea's fifth game in a draining fortnight that also included the return trip to the Far East. "We have to focus game by game though and not think too far ahead," Ivanovic added. "When Aston Villa come to our ground, they have nothing to lose and will have extra confidence after winning at Liverpool, so it is going to be very difficult, especially as we have spent a week in Japan. "We have to be mentally ready, but at least we are at home - and there will be no flying!" Don't miss any live and exclusive football coverage this festive season. Click here to visit Sky Sports' Festive Calendar

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