Michael Mancienne admits he may seek a move away from Chelsea.
The England U21 defender is interesting Fulham and West Ham and said: "I understand the problem at Chelsea because there are so many top quality players.
"But it can get you down when you are a regular with England under-21s but you go back to the reserve team. It's very frustrating.
"My game has blossomed under Stuart Pearce and my education at Chelsea has been top class.
"But I am at a stage now where I need to play first team football and feel ready to test myself at the highest level.
"I will keep trying to catch the boss' eye but eventually you have to be honest and start thinking about what's best for your career."