Petr Cech has thanked Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich for allowing him make his £10m switch to Arsenal.

The veteran goalkeeper fell behind Thibaut Courtois in the Stamford Bridge pecking order last season and, having spent a year as number two, Cech decided the time was right to move on after 11 seasons at Chelsea.

With Arsenal showing interest, Cech set his heart on staying in the Premier League only for Blues boss Jose Mourinho to insist he would not be sold to a rival team.

Cech spoke personally with Abramovich and the billionaire owner decided to overrule his manager and allow the 33-year-old to make the switch across London.

After completing his move to Arsenal, Cech used a personal letter to Chelsea fans to thank Abramovich for his part in the deal.

“I am not at the stage of my career where I want to be on the bench,” Cech said.

“That’s why I spoke to Mr Abramovich about me staying in the Premier League and I’d like to thank him from the bottom of my heart for his support.”

Cech admits he had expected to finish his career at Chelsea before Courtois came along but is now relishing the chance to play for Arsenal and says he was convinced about the move after talking to Arsene Wenger.

“Once I spoke to Arsene Wenger about the ambitions and motivations this club has, my decision was clear because I wanted to be a part of it,” he added.

“I believe I will find a team that wants to be successful and wants to challenge the best in Europe. I hope that I can bring something a little extra to the team.”

Arsenal are 5.00 to win the Premier League next season, with Cech’s old club Chelsea 2.50 to retain their crown.