Gianfranco Zola says he understands the frustration many Chelsea fans are feeling over the possibility of Callum Hudson-Odoi leaving the club, but that the youngster needs to prove he is worth a place in the team.
Bayern Munich are keen to land the 18-year-old, who has impressed hugely when given a chance in the Blues first team but has made just one Premier League appearance since Maurizio Sarri took over as boss.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, assistant boss Zola was asked about many Chelsea fans being unhappy that academy products are not becoming first-team regulars.
The loss of Hudson-Odoi would be a particularly big blow for supporters who see the young forward as a hugely exciting prospect.
“I understand that. We also would be very happy to see a young player come through,” Zola said.
“But you have to realise one thing; that to come through in a team like Chelsea is not easy for anybody unless you are already an exceptional player.
“By saying that I am not saying that Callum is not a fantastic player. But he’s still in a period in which he is showing a lot of potential but he has to become a footballer and he has in front of him players that are mature – we are talking about top players.
“I think it’s about patience. I believe he has a bright future with us, but right now for him it is important to get better and better every day.
“He doesn’t have to focus on ‘why didn’t I play?’ or ‘I should be playing 20 games’. It doesn’t matter. What is important is ‘what should I do to be better than Willian, Pedro and Hazard?’ – focusing every day working on that.
“If he does that, with the qualities he’s got, I’ve got no doubt he will be a fantastic player.”