International breaks provide players with a unique opportunity to speak to the media in their home country, which often sees them open up a little more and speak more freely.

That's just what's happened with Cesare Casadei, who is so out of the picture at Chelsea in terms of media and interviews that he might as well not exist. We had barely heard from him all season, and you'd have been forgiven for thinking he'd secured a deadline day move away had he not started making appearances two weeks ago when we played Barrow in the EFL Cup.

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"It was pretty hard under Pochettino because I only made a few appearances as a substitute. 11 games, but only 71 minutes on the pitch. I wasn't too happy. Everyone would like to play more," Casadei admitted of last season.

"After talking to the coach, I was 100% sure that staying was the best decision," the midfielder assured the interviewer.

"Maresca told me what he thinks, and I had no doubts. I remained here without even considering potential loan deals. I don't even think about the winter transfer window. I couldn't be more proud to play for Chelsea, and the competition is one of the reasons why I decided to stay."

We love that attitude, and after a slow start, it does seem like it might work out for him. Maresca has used him twice in a row in the B team, and that side will get plenty of action across the cups this year.