'Felt this could have been my season' - Chelsea midfielder Chukwuemeka reflects on injury woes 

Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka has reflected on the injury woes that hampered his season. 

The England youth international of Nigerian descent was earmarked to play a key role for Chelsea this season having started their first two games in the Premier League, but has been struggling with a persistent knee injury since August.

Chukwuemeka netted his first senior goal in Chelsea's 3-1 loss to West Ham United but his joy turned to pain when he suffered an injury to his left knee in the closing minutes of the first half. 

The former Aston Villa wonderkid has not been available for selection in thirty games contested by Chelsea this season due to injury problems.

Despite the setbacks, Chukwuemeka has stressed that he has grown mentally in the face of adversity and he's determined to develop the physical side of his game further.

Speaking to Chelsea's matchday programme for today’s game against West Ham United, Chukwuemeka stated: "It was quite tough. I'd been waiting a long time for my breakthrough and after that goal I felt it was coming. 

"I felt this could have been my season, but it obviously wasn’t meant to be. I’m still grateful because, off the pitch, I’ve grown a lot, mentally as well.

"I just viewed it as an opportunity to grow stronger mentally, and strengthen myself physically, because that was one aspect I knew I needed to work on going into this season. 

"I set myself the goal to come back stronger, to build more muscle mass, which I’ve done. I thank God, and hopefully there are more highs to come."

Chukwuemeka's goal against West Ham at the London Stadium was voted Chelsea's Goal of the Month for August. 

The 20-year-old is undergoing a rehabilitation programme and unlikely to be called up for today's game against the Hammers at Stamford Bridge. 

Igho Kingsley

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