Much was expected of Christopher Nkunku when he signed for Chelsea, but injuries hampered his Chelsea career.

Nkunku is now fit and available, but is still struggling for minutes.

Enzo Maresca has preferred to use Nicolas Jackson as his top striker, while Nkunku features more in Cup games.

Nkunku has proven himself so far this term, and has scored 10 goals in just 17 appearances in all competitions.

Nkunku’s best position is behind the striker – a role he may never really play at Chelsea.

For former Chelsea midfielder Emmanuel Petit, Chelsea are already thinking longer-term and are creating room for Brazilian sensation Estevao Willian who will join Chelsea officially next season.

Petit told Casino Hawks: “Christopher Nkunku isn’t being prioritised at Chelsea because of who is coming in to play in that position, Estevao Willian.

“This is a player who has broken Neymar’s records in Brazil and has so much quality despite only being 17.

“His agent says that everything is clear with the Chelsea board in terms of plans and he’ll be playing in the number 10 position next season.

“Nkunku has done well and has also played well for France, but his injuries have held him back and although Chelsea will be very happy to keep him, he isn’t their priority.”