Bertrand Traore left Chelsea to save his career... but he's open to returning in the future

Former Chelsea youngster Bertrand Traore says he had to leave Stamford Bridge as there was no guarantee of first-team football.

The Blues lost a number of youth prospects over the summer, the likes of Dominic Solanke, Nathan Ake, Nathaniel Chalobah also leaving on permanent deals after struggling to make a first-team breakthrough.

Traore has impressed since joining Lyon in a deal worth £9million, scoring four goals including one against Everton in the Europa League earlier in October.

“Going from Chelsea was the best decision for me. I am enjoying myself, as a young player you can only improve if you are playing every week,” Traore told Daily Mail.

“I enjoyed my time at Chelsea and when I had opportunities to show what I could do on the pitch, I took them with both hands. But there wasn't any guarantee I would play.

“Yes, I would be happy if it was me in the Chelsea first team playing every weekend, but this is football and you have to take decisions. Along with Chelsea, I took the decision to sign for Lyon and I am happy with that."

Traore has not ruled out a future return to Stamford Bridge, adding: “Why not, it is up to me to develop and progress as a player and prove that I am good enough to play in the Premier League.

“Others went back, it is a possibility. I have to focus on Lyon, do my best and see what I do in the future."

Chelsea currently have 34 players out on loan.