Kenneth Omeruo says he is helpful of playing under Antonio Conte for Chelsea next season.
The Nigerian international defender, who signed a one-year contract extension with the Blues in the summer, was sent out on a season-long loan at Turkish club Alanyaspor for this campaign.
But despite not having made a single appearance for the club since signing in 2012, the 23-year-old is confident he can return and establish himself under Conte next season.
“I am hopeful of playing under coach Antonio Conte next season, ” he told allnigeriasoccer.com.
“I’m working really hard to remain at Chelsea and play in the Premier League.”
Before this season, Omeruo has already been out on loan at ADO Den Haag, Middlesbrough and Turkish club Kasimpasa.
Despite his lack of opportunity at Chelsea, the versatile defender, who can play right across the back line, has been an important player for Nigeria.
After making his debut in January 2013 against Cape Verde he has amassed 33 caps for the Super Eagles, helping them win the 2013 African Cup of Nations.
Before heading out to Turkey for the second season in succession, Omeruo, who is contracted with Chelsea until 2019, told BBC Sport of his ambitions for the future.
“I don’t want to enjoy the tag of being a Chelsea player always going out on loan without regular football,” he said.
“My desire is to prove myself a worthy addition to Alanyaspor, make a significant contribution in all competitions and take it from there.
“I don’t want to get ahead of myself but everybody wants to be settled at a place and play regularly – I am no different.”
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