Kurt Zouma: I'm 'very happy' and 'very proud' to be at Chelsea

The year that was, 2015, at least as of right now, is more likely to be marked not by Chelsea's domestic glories in the Premier League and the League Cup, but rather by the very poor results the team had in the second half of the year, which saw the team flirt with the relegation zone and lead to manager José Mourinho's sacking. Even so, there are some silver linings to be taken from this terrible period, such as the emergence of defender Kurt Zouma as a starter.

Unsurprisingly, getting to play regularly for one of the biggest clubs in the world makes Zouma, fittingly enough considering his middle name, quite happy.

"I am very proud to be at Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world. I'm very happy and feel I have improved a lot. In 2015 I had a lot of chances to play, played in some big games and won two titles, so I am happy with the year on a personal level."

While we'd much rather just forget about this current season, there have been a few moments that stood out in a good way.  The 2-0 win over Arsenal at Stamford Bridge is certainly one of those; and that game is proudly held in high regard by Zouma due to a particular personal achievement.

"The highlight I think was the London derby at home against Arsenal this season, when I scored my first league goal for the club and one of the best in my career so far for sure. I celebrated the goal in a big way because we weren't good in the table but we were desperate to win the game and I was very, very proud."

The new year started on a high note for Chelsea, with a 3-0 away win over Crystal Palace, with most of the team, including Zouma himself, putting in great performances.  That was the first match of the second half of the league season and will hopefully prove to be the first of many wins.

In addition, Zouma is also looking forward to this summer's Euro 2016, which will be held in his native land.  The potential prospect of representing France at a tournament played in France no doubt serves as great motivation for continued good performances for Chelsea.

"It's a big year for me personally, there are the Euros in France and of course I want to be there in the squad so I have to keep working hard with Chelsea, improving myself in training and playing games."

"The tournament is at home in France, we want to win and be a very strong team, just like we do with Chelsea. There are many more matches to win in 2016 and the new year has started well. Let's keep it up."

-Kurt Zouma; source: Chelsea FC