Kurt
Zouma says he is 'very happy' to be at Chelsea, with a lot being learned
despite his limited game time.
The promising centre-half agreed a switch to Stamford Bridge in January, but
saw out the 2013/14 campaign on loan at former employers St Etienne.
He was drafted into Jose Mourinho’s ranks over the summer, but has had to be
patient in his pursuit of first team opportunities – with the likes of John
Terry and Gary Cahill ahead of him in the defensive pecking order.
Zouma has enjoyed his experiences in England, though, and has no regrets at
having linked up with the Premier League leaders as he seeks to unlock the
potential which earned him a £12.5million price tag.
The 20-year-old said in the Evening Standard: “I feel very well, I am very
happy to be here. We have a very good and strong team. We are working very
hard to win trophies.
“I am making progress when I play, when the coach gives me a chance. I am
also learning from very good players in John Terry and Gary Cahill.
“We have a lot of games to play this season and when I have my chance, I try
to be my best and play a very good game.
“Before I played in France and this is very different for me. I hope I will
play a lot of games in the Premier League, it’s a good League. I am enjoying
it.”
Zouma caught the eye again in Chelsea’s narrow Capital One Cup victory over
Shrewsbury Town in midweek, and England international Cahill acknowledges
that the youngster is now breathing down his neck.
He said: “Yes. I’ve always felt pushed since I have been at the club. I have
never felt that the shirt is mine. There is always someone in front or right
behind you.
“Kurt is a fantastic player and a great option for the manager to have. We
have three centre-backs and Branislav Ivanovic can play there as well.
“He’s an absolute unit. He’s a big guy, strong and powerful. He’s good in
the air. He’s a fantastic talent and a great guy off the pitch. He is so
young and every time he’s come into play, he’s done really, really well.”
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