John Terry was thrilled to end Chelsea’s five-year wait for a Premier League crown by clinching this season’s title with three games to spare.

Eden Hazard scored the crucial goal on Sunday as Jose Mourinho’s side edged to a 1-0 victory against Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge to secure their fourth title in 11 years, but the first since Carlo Ancelotti guided the club to an FA Cup and Premier League double in 2010.

Terry said: “It’s an unbelievable feeling. We’ve worked so hard, so to get over the line is great. It was a bit nervy – they are a good side and made it difficult. Thankfully Eden got the goal and we won the game.

“This is what I live for. It’s been five years since we’ve won it. The first one was special and you go four or five years without it and that hurts. So I’ll really enjoy it today.”

Chelsea have only lost two games all season – to Newcastle United and Tottenham – but since the 5-3 defeat at White Hart Lane on New Year’s Day, they have put together a 15-match unbeaten run, winning 11 games and drawing the other four.

Palace did not make it easy for Chelsea though, particularly in the first half, but they lost their way after Hazard scored just before the interval.

After James McArthur was adjudged to have brought Hazard down, the 24-year-old Belgian got up and took the spot-kick himself. Although his very weak effort was saved by Julian Speroni, the player of the season was alert enough to head the rebound home.

The second half was a low-key affair and, although Didier Drogba and Hazard had chances to extend their lead, Chelsea had already done enough to be named champions.