Chelsea defender Kurt Zouma has revealed that he will not be fit to start the season as he continues his recovery from a knee injury.
The 21-year-old has not been in action since suffering cruciate ligament damage in February.
It was initially reported that Zouma would be on the treatment table for around six months, but the defender does not believe that he will be fit enough to play under new manager Antonio Conte until later in the campaign.
"I am working hard every day, from 10am to 4pm I am working on the knee and on some cardio," Zouma told The Telegraph.
"I won't be ready for the start of the season, but the doctor is happy with my knee and I'm feeling good. I have to take care and not rush, so I will take my time.
"I am very happy at Chelsea and I want to show everyone that I will be back even stronger after my injury."
Zouma joined the Blues from Saint-Etienne in 2014.
Danielle Joynson
