Thibaut Courtois has expressed his gratitude towards Chelsea teammate Petr Cech.

The Belgian goalkeeper became number one at Stamford Bridge last season with his performances effectively ending veteran Cech's time at the club.

With Czech Republic international Cech likely to depart west London this summer, Courtois has heaped praise on the 33-year old for helping take his game to the next level.

"When you look at the quality of Petr there is no doubt that he is one of the best in the world. Our relationship in training was really good," said Courtois.

"I think we pushed each other to a higher level and I think we have seen in the games for Chelsea that if I was not playing he was playing and he saved the team as well.

"For me he is a fantastic guy. I worked really well with him. Of course I am grateful for the year that we had.

"If he stays I am happy. If he leaves I understand as well."

Cech, who has been with Chelsea since 2004, continues to be linked with Premier League rivals Arsenal as well as French champions Paris Saint-Germain.