Maresca believes Fernandez is growing in stature at Chelsea

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 campaign at Chelsea under Mauricio Pochettino, struggling with a hernia issue which required surgery and meant he missed 10 games.

He has shone in this campaign though, with only Cole Palmer (47) creating more chances than Fernandez (26) for the Blues, and the Argentine has already chipped in with three league goals.

Fernandez has often been given the captain’s armband in the absence of Reece James, and Maresca has been impressed by his emerging leadership qualities.

“With Enzo we are very happy,” said Maresca.

“It’s good the players can focus on what they are able to do and we try to help them.

We moved him in the pocket [against Everton] for the last half an hour. He is helping us a lot. He is growing with leadership also.”

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Fernandez has been complimentary of the job Maresca has done so far, believing Chelsea can achieve “great things” with the Italian in charge.

“I learned the position in which I had to play,” said Fernandez. “Over time I got the idea of what the coach wanted.

“[Maresca] explained to me what he wanted and I was getting the concept, reading the games.

“On a personal level, I have been feeling very good.”

Chelsea’s next match is at home to Fulham on Boxing Day.