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Exclusive: Chelsea defender Omeruo says Pellegrino key to improvement

Kenneth Omeruo says he has learned from Leganes manager Mauricio Pellegrino.

The Chelsea defender has enjoyed a fine season on loan with the La Liga club, making 24 appearances across all competitions, including the last 18 straight leagues matches.

Los Pepineros have benefitted from Omeruo's presence, having kept nine clean sheets with the Nigeria international in the starting line-up.

Omerou recently revealed to Tribalfootball that he hopes Leganes will take up their option to make his loan deal permanent once the season finishes.

One reason why the 25-year-old has enjoyed his time with the Madrid-based team is the presence of former Southampton boss Pellegrino.

He told TribalFootball.com: "Yes. My game has really improved because after each game.

"I have some private time with the manager (Mauricio Pellegrino) and he explains a lot of things to me."

After breaking through with Velez Sarsfield in his native Argentina, Pellegrino made a reputation for himself in Europe as a competent centre-back with Valencia. He would make over 140 appearances for Los Che, including a start in the Champions League final loss to Bayern Munich in 2000/01.

Capped three times by Argentina, Pellegrino also spent half a season with Liverpool towards the end of his career.

With a wealth of experience defending at the top level, Pellegrino has proven to be a valuable source of information for Omeruo."Some mistakes, some corrections about positioning and these have really helped my football. I am happy to be working under him," added the Nigerian.

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Andrew Maclean
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