Former Chelsea midfielder Raul Meireles is thrilled with his move to Fenerbahce.

Meireles insists its not a step down.

"I am excited and very happy to wear the shirt of Fenerbahce," said Meireles.

"I am a player who prefers talking on the pitch, but going from the Premier League to the Turkish League was an easy decision.

"When I heard of the proposal I accepted because Fenerbahce is a great club, as well known as Chelsea, Liverpool or FC Porto.

"I played with Dirk in Liverpool and, first of all, he is a friend. He already told me that Istanbul is a fantastic citadel.

"I do not lose ambition with my departure from the Premier League. I had fantastic years in England and a great final season at Chelsea, winning the Champions League.

"Now I want to have the same success in the Fenerbahce and win trophies."