By Maresca admitting that Chukwuemeka is a long way down his pecking order, and then backing that up by consigning him to the sidelines, Chelsea have lost a huge chunk of their bargaining power when they come to try and sell him in January.

Ipswich Town are interested in signing a Chelsea outcast amid his total lack of involvement under Enzo Maresca.

Christopher Nkunku is already considering his Chelsea future despite only joining the club in the summer of 2023.

Former Premier League defender William Gallas has warned Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca that Enzo Fernandez may not be suited to the English top flight.