'It took him six months' - Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino fires backhanded compliment to Noni Madueke as he warns in-form winger about 'behaviour'

Madueke, acquired from PSV Eindhoven for around €33 million (£28.5m) a year ago, recently started his second Premier League game this season in a 3-2 victory over Luton Town. The 21-year-old is gradually adapting to the methods of Pochettino having scored in Chelsea's last two games. He found the net against both Crystal Palace and Luton with his recent exploits drawing praise from his Argentine manager.

Speaking to reporters, Pochettino said: "I am so happy — it took him nearly six months to realise what we expect from him. Players need to improve and he is improving a lot — his behaviour now, and the way that he has committed himself first, and with the rest of the ideas from the club."

However, the manager also sent out a mild warning and added: “Noni has potential and talent. He needs to do the things and behave in the future if he wants to succeed. That is the platform for everyone and then it is about being right in your mind and being consistent in the way we propose they behave.”

Pochettino is aware of Madueke's potential strengths and weaknesses as he has nurtured him for four years at Tottenham's academy (2014-18) before he joined PSV Eindhoven at 16. Naturally, he is delighted with the latest upswing in the form of Madueke and if the forward can keep building on the momentum, Chelsea will have a fierce option in attack for years to come.

Madueke will hope to find the net for the third successive outing when Chelsea take on Preston in the FA Cup on Saturday.