Jadon Sancho has struggled to secure regular starts at Chelsea, with manager Enzo Maresca urging him to be both “mentally and physically” fit to earn more opportunities.
Sancho, who joined Chelsea on loan from Manchester United this summer, has seen limited playing time, with his last start for the Blues coming on October 20.
However, the winger was given another chance in Thursday night’s Europa Conference League clash against Heidenheim, where he contributed with an assist in Chelsea’s 2-0 victory.
Maresca has reiterated that Jadon Sancho remains part of his plans for the season but emphasized the importance of the former Borussia Dortmund star being in top condition to earn a more regular role in the team.
He said: “I said since we start, Jadon is very important for us. He has to be fit, mentally and physically and he is going to help us a lot.
“Unfortunately we did not use him in the last few games but he is showing tonight how important he is. We need that quality in the last third against a low block. He is going to help us a lot.”
Sancho’s main challenge at Chelsea is the intense competition within the squad.
Following several years of heavy recruitment, the club boasts a wealth of attacking options, leaving manager Enzo Maresca spoilt for choice in the final third.
Pedro Neto and Noni Madueke appear to be the preferred options on the wings, with Sancho largely serving as an impact player from the bench.
The Englishman has made just seven appearances this season, significantly fewer than some of his teammates.
With Chelsea still competing on multiple fronts and the hectic festive period approaching, the fixture list remains relentless. Maresca has emphasized the importance of a squad-wide effort, suggesting frequent rotation to keep players fresh and maintain momentum.
He said on his squad players: “They did fantastic. I think all of them. Jadon Sancho did a very good game. Axel [Disasi] and Benoit [Badiashile]. Cesare [Casadei] did well. They are ready and it’s important. Filip [Jorgensen] did a very good game, Christo [Nkunku] the same. We have nine or 10 games in December so they are going to get more chances. They need to be ready.”
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