'Nkunku looks deflated'

Christopher Nkunku has become a problem that needs solving for Chelsea.

The 27-year-old France international was signed to be a key player at Stamford Bridge but, after an injury-hit first season, he has found his opportunities limited under manager Enzo Maresca.

Before the transfer window opened, there were multiple reports that he was unhappy at only being allowed to start in Conference League and domestic cup matches.

Those reports appeared to be backed up by Nkunku's body language on the pitch in recent months, while further rumours that he was offered in a swap deal for Manchester United's Alejandro Garnacho can't have helped.

But Maresca is trying to give Nkunku a bigger role now the January transfer window has closed, and he has said the forward will be an important player between now and the end of the season.

However, Maresca has also said that Nkunku's best position is as a number 10 but, with Cole Palmer the undisputed option for that role, he will have to play elsewhere - and Chelsea are in need of a number nine after injuries to both Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu.

He played up front in Chelsea's 2-1 loss at Amex Stadium on Saturday night where he recorded just 34 touches, 20 fewer than goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, while also failing to register a single shot on goal and having one unsuccessful dribble attempt.

His performance included a bizarre moment where he opted to pass to Cole Palmer, while one-on-one with Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, instead of shooting.

That lack of confidence in front of goal is highlighted by his record of just one goal in 10 matches.

Chelsea need Nkunku to rediscover his form and hit his trademark balloon celebration, but he looks deflated amid confusion around his position and importance to the club.