The Blues were thrown into turmoil in September when Jose Mourinho left Stamford Bridge, with director of football Avram Grant named as his successor.

Despite the upheaval, they have lost only one match - at Manchester United - since Grant took over and now the Israeli has just agreed a new four-year deal.

On Sunday, they travel to the Emirates Stadium just three points adrift of opponents and league leaders Arsenal.

And Brazil international Alex insists Chelsea head to north London as a team in the ascendency.

"We went through a very difficult period," he told the club's website, www.chelseafc.com.

"There was great confusion for everybody. We were all very used to Mourinho and he was a great man who helped me a great deal.

"There was a lot of confusion and it did make a difference. We dropped points, particularly at home when he had some draws.

"But, gradually, we are creeping up and keeping in touch with the leaders, which is the most important thing."

Alex has enjoyed an extended run in the side but could soon lose his place, with Ricardo Carvalho nearing recovery from a back injury.

The Arsenal game looks too soon for Carvalho's return and Grant will be content to select Alex given it was his header for PSV Eindhoven at the Emirates that dumped the Gunners out of the Champions League last season.

Paul Ferreira started Tuesday night's goalless draw with Valencia after recovering from an ankle problem and goalkeeper Petr Cech is also available after coming through the same match unharmed.

Grant said: "We used the Valencia game for Petr and Ferreira to get some time on the pitch as they haven't played for five or six weeks.

"Petr didn't have so much to do against Valencia but looked comfortable as always. Ferriera played well as well."