ENZO MARESCA has revealed the real reason he booted Ben Chilwell from Chelsea's squad.
The defender has made just one appearance for the Blues this season.
The 28-year-old Chilwell made his only appearance in the Carabao Cup and did not play in the Premier League at all.
His lack of action has seen him linked with a move away, with both West Ham and Manchester United tipped as destinations.
Maresca spoke about Chilwell's future ahead of the 2-2 draw against Bournemouth on Tuesday evening.
The manager – who has recalled Trevoh Chalobah from Crystal Palace – admitted he felt “embarrassed” over the situation with the 21-cap England star.
He suggested Chilwell has “worked hard” but could leave for more game time.
He said: “As players want to play more, there are probably chances of them leaving.
But Ben has been great. I have to say he's been great.
“Very professional, works hard. I am ashamed of this situation, but in terms of behavior he has been very good.”
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Maresca also emphasized that the defender cannot do as much as his other options.
He added: “First of all, because it's my choice.
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“And because I see Malo Gusto, Reece James or Marc Cucurella doing different types of work during the match.
“I think Chilwell is a top full-back who does his job up and down and has had opportunities to win titles and play in the national team in the past, but I struggle to see Ben doing different types of things. “
Chilwell is not the only player who could leave Stamford Bridge this month.
Renato Veiga has been heavily linked with a move to Borussia Dortmund.
He has reportedly agreed to join the German team just six months into his eight-year contract with Chelsea.
However, Maresca claimed that he was not aware of any agreement between the two parties.
He said: “I am not aware of there being a deal for Renato.
“Yesterday he was working here, today he will be working, so he is our player. We will see if something happens.
“We bought Renato from Basel, he arrived and played well in different positions and allowed him to join the national team for the first time in his life.
“Even though he didn't play in his position [centre back]he's probably playing for [the] international team means he does well in the position he plays.
“We are happy that all the players are going to the international team, especially young players who come to Chelsea, play in four or five different positions and have the opportunity to play in the national team.
“We are very proud of that.”
Chelsea's recent form has seen them drop out of the title race, having won just once in their previous six Premier League games.
The club's last win came against Brentford on 15 December, followed by defeats against Ipswich and Fulham and draws against Everton, Crystal Palace and the Cherries.
This form has caused Maresca's team to fall ten points behind leaders Liverpool and to fourth place.
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