Chalobah was reluctant to return to simply make up the numbers in Maresca's squad. He has been assured that he has a role to play

Chelsea are reportedly still in talks to sign a new centre back currently playing in the Premier League, despite recalling Trevoh Chalobah this month.

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca says January has been "a disaster" because of ongoing speculation around his players. He believes the transfer window, a notorious time of year for rumours and hearsay, has affected the focus of some of his players and negatively impacted their results.

Enzo Maresca today described being in charge of Chelsea during the January transfer window as a “disaster” because of the unsettling effect it is having on his squad. Chelsea have picked up just three points from their last five Premier League games but it is not the disappointing form which is providing him with the most concern.

Enzo Maresca has bemoaned the ongoing transfer speculation surrounding his Chelsea squad, admitting that January has been 'a disaster' for the club