Former Chelsea striker Andriy Shevchenko has jumped to the defence of January signing Mykhailo Mudryk after another poor display from his compatriot.

The 22 year old struggled to impress as Chelsea lost 2-0 to Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. He was substituted after 57 minutes.

An £88.5million transfer fee means there are big expectations for Mudryk but he has one assist in seven Premier League appearances and no goals as he struggles to adapt to life in England.

“Chelsea have bought a talented player when he is very young, for the future,” Shevchenko said, via BBC Sport.

“He’s just starting his path in a massive football career.

“He’s part of an ambitious project. He’s in good hands. The decision to get him right now was down to how much the club believe in his talent.”