Madueke has started just two games in all competitions (Picture: Getty)
Mauricio Pochettino has warned Noni Madueke needs to raise his level at Chelsea in order to secure more first-team chances.
Madueke joined the Blues from PSV Eindhoven last January, a move believed to have been largely driven by Pochettino’s predecessor Graham Potter.
But the winger has made just eight appearances across all competitions this season, starting just one match in the Premier League.
Despite speculation over a possible January move, Chelsea are not considering letting the England Under-21 international leave on loan.
But with intense competition for places in attacking positions, Pochettino believes Madueke has not yet shown enough to warrant a place in his side.
‘I think from the beginning of the season he was involved and not involved, he was injured and suffered some problems,’ Pochettino told a press conference on Friday.
‘It is always something we expect with the players and the competition.
Pochettino wants more from his young winger (Picture: Getty)
‘Noni is in a position where there is massive competition because there are too many players in that area. I think he needs to do better and needs to increase his level.
‘He was injured and is recovering maybe he will be involved int he next games.’
While Madueke will not leave the club in January, Chelsea are reportedly considering the possibility of selling Conor Gallagher to help raise funds for a new striker.
The England international has started every Premier League match this season with the exception of this month’s trip to Manchester United where he served a suspension. Pochettino admits however the decision will ultimately lie with the board.
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‘About the future, it’s about the club and player and what they decide to do. In my previous experience at other clubs, I try to give my best opinion and advice to the club,’ Pochettino said.
‘I’m a manager who likes to work with the sporting director and the owners. It’s about talking and analysing things, then taking the best decision for the club.
‘It’s always, I repeat, from experience in the past, it’s about the club and the player and what they decide to do.’
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