The promising centre-half agreed a switch to Stamford Bridge in January, but saw out the 2013/14 campaign on loan at former employers St Etienne.

He was drafted into Jose Mourinho's ranks over the summer, but has had to be patient in his pursuit of first team opportunities - with the likes of John Terry and Gary Cahill ahead of him in the defensive pecking order.

Zouma has enjoyed his experiences in England, though, and has no regrets at having linked up with the Premier League leaders as he seeks to unlock the potential which earned him a £12.5million price tag.

The 20-year-old said in the Evening Standard: "I feel very well, I am very happy to be here. We have a very good and strong team. We are working very hard to win trophies.

"I am making progress when I play, when the coach gives me a chance. I am also learning from very good players in John Terry and Gary Cahill.

"We have a lot of games to play this season and when I have my chance, I try to be my best and play a very good game.

"Before I played in France and this is very different for me. I hope I will play a lot of games in the Premier League, it's a good League. I am enjoying it."

Zouma caught the eye again in Chelsea's narrow Capital One Cup victory over Shrewsbury Town in midweek, and England international Cahill acknowledges that the youngster is now breathing down his neck.

He said: "Yes. I've always felt pushed since I have been at the club. I have never felt that the shirt is mine. There is always someone in front or right behind you.

"Kurt is a fantastic player and a great option for the manager to have. We have three centre-backs and Branislav Ivanovic can play there as well.

"He's an absolute unit. He's a big guy, strong and powerful. He's good in the air. He's a fantastic talent and a great guy off the pitch. He is so young and every time he's come into play, he's done really, really well."