Chelsea legend Michael Essien has advised Ruben Loftus-Cheek to remain at Stamford Bridge and fight for his place in Maurizio Sarri's side.

It is likely that the 22-year-old will leave in January to search for more first-team opportunities due to Maurizio Sarri's packed midfield resources.

But Essien, who played over 250 games for Chelsea, believes Loftus-Cheek should persevere with the Blues.

"Well, I mean he has to stay," Essien told the Evening Standard when asked about Loftus-Cheek's future at Chelsea.

"When you play for a club like Chelsea, you know the competition will always be there and you have to work hard to win your position.

"As you said, they have many midfielders but it's all down to him. He's such a good boy and he works hard.

"Maybe he might want to play more first-team football and games but he has to stay and work hard and you never know - football changes very quickly and he might get his chance.".