Enzo Maresca believes Enzo Fernandez's improved performances this season have seen him grow as a leader for Chelsea.
Fernandez endured a difficult first full season at Chelsea under Mauricio Pochettino, struggling with a hernia problem that required surgery and caused him to miss 10 games.
However, he has shone this season, with only Cole Palmer (47) creating more chances than Fernandez (26) for the Blues, and the Argentine has already scored three league goals.
Fernandez has often been given the captain's armband in the absence of Reece James, and Maresca has been impressed with his emerging leadership qualities.
“We are very happy with Enzo,” said Maresca.
“It's good that the players can concentrate on what they can do and we try to help them.
We put him in the bag [against Everton] for the last half hour. He helps us a lot. He also grows with leadership.”
Fulham (H) pic.twitter.com/EHTcF1GRwr
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Fernandez praised the work Maresca has done so far, believing Chelsea can achieve “big things” with the Italian in charge.
“I learned the position I had to play,” Fernandez said. “Over time I got an idea of what the coach wanted.
“[Maresca] explained to me what he wanted and I got the concept by reading the games.
“On a personal level I felt very good.”
Chelsea's next match is at home to Fulham on Boxing Day.
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