Thomas Tuchel has opened up on his plans for N'Golo Kante, Mason Mount and Billy Gilmour after the trio missed out on starting his first game as Chelsea manager.
Kante has failed to appear in the Blues' last five games due to a hamstring injury but is nearing a return to action.
And new boss Tuchel has big ideas about how he plans to use a player he has admitted to wanted to previously sign for Paris Saint-Germain.
"[I am] excited to work with him. He's back training today and I think he's the strongest in the heart of the game," the German told reporters.
"For me he's best in a double '6' and we can use his range of ability and skill to keep the ball and win it back.
"He has big potential and is a world class player who played a crucial role in the World Cup win for France."
Having grown into an influential figure under previous manager Frank Lampard, Mount was restricted to just seven minutes off the bench on Tuchel's debut as Chelsea coach - a 0-0 draw with Wolves on Wednesday evening.
Promising midfielder Billy Gilmour, meanwhile, was not included the matchday squad.
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Asked about both players' prospects, the new head coach replied: "I wanted to take the weight off their shoulders.
"I wanted to give the responsibility in this special moment to a bit more experienced players and have them on hand. There is nothing to worry about, I like what I see from Mason so far. Such a nice and competitive guy.
"Every game I have seen so far, Mason cares for Chelsea, 100 per cent. This is the best basis for a big development. I am very happy to have him around, I will not stop pushing him and guiding him.
"For Billy, I have a good impression. He is a very strategic guy, very high level of game understanding, good in the first contact, clever positioning.
"We will see if he has the physical level. But he is super quick with his feet."
Billy Gilmour 
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