Oscar
has revealed to
Sky Sports News HQ the extent of his frustration at
a lack of playing time this season but insists he wants to stay at Chelsea
and prove himself under new manager Antonio Conte.
The 24-year-old Brazil international has made 20 Premier League starts after
an early-season injury and is reportedly attracting interest from a host of
top European clubs including Juventus.
But, speaking ahead of their penultimate game of the season at Liverpool,
live on
Sky Sports 2 HD on Wednesday night, Oscar says Conte's
arrival is a clean slate for the entire Chelsea squad.
"It's been very difficult for me," Oscar told
Sky Sports News HQ.
"I had a great season last season, and I'm coming from two or three seasons
of doing well, but I was one of those players who got injured at the start
of the season.
"When I came back, the team wasn't doing so well and I found myself on the
bench and in and out of the first team. I didn't achieve the level I wanted
to achieve but hopefully next season I can do better.
"[The new manager's arrival] is great for the players. Obviously you have to
prove yourself. I'm sure the coach has been following all the players
individually.
"It will be a breath of fresh air to the team and everyone's excited to
prove their worth to be here. Obviously I haven't been very happy because I
haven't been playing very much but, with the new coach coming in, it's a
fresh beginning for everyone."
Doubts remain, however, over the future of Chelsea's long-standing captain
John Terry, who is out of contract in June, and has not been given any
indication yet from the club that he is in line for an extension.
Terry said on Tuesday that he still wants to stay at Stamford Bridge, while
interim head coach Guus Hiddink believes the centre-back is worthy of a new
deal, and Oscar also hopes the skipper will remain at the club.
He said: "His future is down to him and Chelsea to decide what's best.
Obviously I want him to stay but it's down to them.
"He's a great leader and he has helped me ever since I arrived here. I like
him very much but he will know what's best for his future and whatever he
decides I'll be happy for him."
top