Graham Potter has suggested that Denis Zakaria is continuing to remain professional as he waits for an opportunity to make his Chelsea debut.
As of early afternoon on transfer deadline day, Chelsea had not been linked with the Juventus midfielder, yet a season-long loan deal was finalised in the final minutes of the summer window.
At the time, the transfer was deemed to be a coup for the Blues, while Zakaria seemingly had the platform to earn regular minutes ahead of representing Switzerland at the World Cup.
However, the 25-year-old is yet to make a single appearance for Chelsea, a consequence of the improvements which have been made since Potter replaced Thomas Tuchel less than a week after Zakaria's arrival.
Given Zakaria's pedigree, there has naturally been talk that the player is open to ending his time in West London at the turn of the year.
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As it stands, though, Potter has stated that he remains a part of the senior group and is doing everything possible to earn a chance to finally make his bow.
Speaking at a press conference, Potter said: "There is no decision been made at all on that. Denis is in the group and has been training well. He is ready to help the team but there is competition for places in that area.
"He is an important member of the team and is patient and trying to help the team from the side at the moment. He is waiting for his chance."
While Chelsea are currently embroiled in a hectic schedule, it appears that only injury or suspension will free up a space for the former Borussia Monchengladbach man.
Mateo Kovacic, Jorginho, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Conor Gallagher are all ahead of Zakaria at the present time, with N'Golo Kante currently sidelined until after the World Cup due to injury.
Zakaria has not completed 90 minutes since representing parent club Juve on the opening weekend of Serie A against Sassuolo on August 15.
Darren Plant
