Inter Milan midfielder Thiago Motta declared his respect for the Blues but says his side will play with no fear.

Speaking to Il Corriere dello Sport, the 27-year-old said ""We respect Chelsea, but we do not fear them."

"They will be difficult, just like other game, but we know the difficulties involved and we hope to play well in the two legs and advance to the quarter-finals."

Inter will host the first leg of his heavyweight round of 16 clash on February 24 before travelling to London on March 16 for the return leg.

The Nerazzurri have been in good form recently, with latest signing Goran Pandev adding to their striking threat. The forward has scored thrice since his move to San Siro and Motta was effusive in his praise for the Macedonian.

"He is a player who has quickly inserted himself [into the squad]. He understood immediately how the team plays. He is smart, has good movement, as well as quality," he continued.

"When you play with so many champions it is easy to fit in."