Jose Mourinho came close to leading Chelsea to the Premier League title last season, but to go better this time around they must possess that ability to control matches from beginning to end. 

When they won domestic titles under Mourinho during his first spell at the club they were difficult to beat, ruthless in attack and powerful in defence. We will no doubt see an emphasis on that this season as the Chelsea manager looks to win trophies. 

Goals from Diego Costa, his second in as many matches, and Eden Hazard were enough to see off a tough Leicester City side. 

“Our first half showed clearly that we have to improve,” said Mourinho. “At half time we had to be a little bit emotional with them and make them realise we were at risk.

“I think they understood. It’s important not to lose points against teams that normally you would beat.”

Roman Abramovich, on the 11th anniversary of his first home match as Chelsea owner, was one of those to witness Costa put the home side into the lead.

The £32 million striker was part of Mourinho’s unchanged line-up, with young goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois once again leaving Petr Cech resigned to a place on the substitute’s bench. 

Spain international striker Costa put the ball in from close range on 62 minutes after good work by full-back Branislav Ivanovic in the build-up. 

Nigel Pearson’s Leicester, winners of the Championship, drew with Everton last week and had given a good account of themselves at Stamford Bridge during a nervy first half for the home side. 

Striker David Nugent had the best chance for the visitors just after the interval but Courtois made a smart save. 

After Chelsea had taken the lead, Leicester’s threat faded, and on 77 minutes Hazard sealed the win with a low right-footed shot.

Of Fernando Torres, who did not make the matchday squad, Mourinho indicated that the £50m misfit was still part of his plans. “I want him to stay,” added the Chelsea boss. “He will play and score goals, and be very useful for us.”