Mykhailo Mudryk's Chelsea struggles 'not down to lack of confidence' as Enzo Maresca challenges £89m flop to 'do better' if he wants starting role

Mudryk has not started in any of Chelsea's last four Premier League matches and has played just 61 minutes in the English top flight this season. Although it has been reported that the Ukrainian is undergoing extra sessions as part of a targeted effort to improve his physical and tactical sharpness on the pitch, it is clear that his journey to redemption is far from over.

Chelsea’s depth in wide attacking areas has only increased his troubles as Jadon Sancho, Joao Felix, and Pedro Neto have added even more competition for places. Maresca has now come out to challenge Mudryk, insisting he must improve he wants to start playing more regularly.

“I don’t think it’s a lack of confidence,” Maresca told reporters when asked about the player’s form. “Misha is Misha, you have to accept the way he is. Hopefully, he can get minutes and do better.”

The Blues are hosting Barrow on Tuesday evening in a Carabao Cup third-round fixture and the 23-year-old could get an opportunity to regain the manager’s trust. Chelsea are due back in Premier League action at home to Brighton four days later.