Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville has issued a strong piece of advice to Chelsea defender Levi Colwill, urging him to become more physically dominant after the Blues’ 3-0 loss to Brighton.

“Colwill’s got to get stronger,” Neville said.

The former Manchester United defender pointed out that the young centre-back has been struggling in physical battles in recent games.

“He’s getting overpowered quite easily in games I’ve seen recently. In three games I’ve seen, he’s been bullied in that channel.”

Neville specifically criticised Colwill’s role in one of Brighton’s goals, highlighting his reaction after losing possession.

“And that one [goal] was obviously a really bad one for him. He gives the ball away then he sits down on the floor, turns around and looks. He spends two or three seconds on the floor. He basically should get up and sprint back. So, that’s a bad habit.”

Despite the criticism, Neville acknowledged that Colwill is still developing and has the potential to improve.

“I would say he is still young, he has a lot of learning to do – as have lots of other young Chelsea players that are playing in these types of positions.”

However, the pundit emphasised the need for Chelsea’s young defenders to adapt to the physical demands of the Premier League.

He added: “But they’ve got to get stronger. They’ve got to get really physical and aggressive.”

Neville concluded by recognising the challenges that come with being a young centre-back in such a competitive league.

He concluded: “It’s tough when you are a young centre-half who hasn’t maybe developed fully yet. He’s learning on the job and it’s hard work for him at the moment.”

Colwill, who has been a key part of Chelsea’s defence this season, will now be looking to respond to Neville’s criticism and prove his physical capabilities on the pitch.