The only way misfiring striker Alvaro Morata will get back to his best is through hard work, according to manager Antonio Conte.
The Spanish international has scored 12 goals in 24 starts for the Blues since joining from Real Madrid in the summer, but has not been on the scoresheet in ten appearances since Boxing Day.
The 25-year-old has missed numerous matches through injury and suspension and has been widely criticised for his performances in recent appearances, notably in the 2-1 defeat against Manchester United in the last league match.
Conte said: “He has to work to recover the best form after an injury on his back.
“He has to work and to have patience and we must have patience but the only way is to work.”
Meanwhile, speaking at a press conference ahead of this weekend’s game against Manchester City, Conte confirmed that Ross Barkley is back in the Chelsea squad and could feature at the Etihad Stadium.
“Ross Barkley this week trained with us and now he has recovered from his injury,” Conte said.
“He will come with us for Manchester City. Then I don’t know if I will decide for him to find a place on the bench or to wait.”