'Chelsea are not stupid' - Southampton coach reveals he wants Ugochukwu to stay

Speaking to reporters at Thursday's press conference before his side's meeting with Brentford at St Mary's Stadium, Southampton coach Ivan Juric commented on the future of France U21 international Lesley Ugochukwu.

Despite impressing during pre-season preparations, Chelsea decided it was best for his development to loan him out to a Premier League rival, where he could play regularly.

He was behind Enzo Fernández, Moisés Caicedo and Roméo Lavia in manager Enzo Maresca's pecking order of midfielders at Stamford Bridge. 

About four weeks ago, there were reports that Ugochukwu might be returning to Chelsea in the January transfer window as he had fallen out of favor under the now-dismissed coach, Russell Martin.

However, the managerial change has worked in his favour as he has appeared in Southampton's last three Premier League games after missing out on the previous four.

"I want that he stays here. I think he has great potential. The people from Chelsea are not stupid," Juric told reporters 

"He is a really young guy at 20 years old and it's not always easy to work with youngsters but he's really good with potential."

Ugochukwu moved to Chelsea in the summer of 2023 from Ligue 1 outfit Rennes but could only feature in 15 games across all competitions in his first season at the Blues. 

Since joining Southampton, he has started six matches from a possible twenty-three in all competitions. 

The French-Nigerian starlet has a contract with Chelsea until June 30, 2030, with a club option for the 2030-2031 season. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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