Kurt Zouma has been encouraged about his prospects at Chelsea after a conversation with manager Frank Lampard.
The Frenchman wants assurances over his playing time at Stamford Bridge, following successful loan spells at Stoke City and Everton.
The Blues are unable to sign players for the next two transfer windows, and 25-year-old Zouma is confident he can fulfill a role in Lampard's side.
He said: "I'm happy with what the manager said about me. That means he is seeing the work I'm doing and I'm very pleased with that.
"We had a chat, and he was very good with me. He is a very good manager.
"I enjoyed my time at Everton but I'm a Chelsea player and we'll see what will happens in the future. I think it will be here at Chelsea.
"This is a chance for me. I went out on loan last season but I'm a Chelsea player and I want to do well to get my chance and be here."
Asked about the competition for places at Stamford Bridge, Zouma added: "There is a lot of quality here. It depends on the manager. He can only play with two centre backs.
"He has to make the choice but he is lucky because he has good players. It will be hard for him to make that choice but that is what we're here for."