Chelsea defender Kurt Zouma has backed boss Antonio Conte's decision to delay his comeback with the first team.
The France international hasn't featured for Chelsea since suffering a serious knee ligament injury against Manchester United in February.
And Zouma said: "I am very pleased to play another 90 minutes. I need to play, keep going and to work because I was out for a long time.
"I am very happy to play (for the Under-23s), I need game-time. I am used to being with the first team, but I am so lucky because I can play with the Under-23s and with a very good team.
"The skipper (Terry) is still there, he's still sharp and in good form. He did well (against Southampton Under-23s). It's very good to get some advice from him."