Trevoh Chalobah opens up on Chelsea exit, admits Enzo Maresca decision was "hard" for him

Having missed the first half of last season through injury, Chalobah was arguably Chelsea's star performer behind Cole Palmer from February onwards.

The versatile defender helped Mauricio Pochettino's side record 24 points from his 10 Premier League appearances, playing a pivotal role in the Blues finishing in sixth place.

However, soon after Maresca replaced Pochettino as head coach, it became apparent that Chalobah was not part of the Italian's plans, much to the frustration of the majority of the club's fanbase at the time.

Co-owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital had been hoping to generate a sizeable transfer fee through the sale of an academy graduate.

While those anticipated offers did not arrive, Chalobah was ultimately able to secure a loan switch to nearby Crystal Palace.

"It was hard"

Speaking to BBC Sport, the 25-year-old admitted that he found it a challenge to overcome the disappointment of being left out in the cold at his boyhood club.

He said: "It was hard. With football, these challenges have to come, you can't separate challenges and success. I've been through a lot growing up, I didn't let it affect me."

"Everyone can conduct themselves when it's all good, but I think it's when things are not going your way you've got to be really strong up here.

"Coming in, training, doing my own bit. I waited patiently, didn't sulk, didn't feel sorry for myself. I just got myself ready - and now I'm here."

How is Chalobah faring at Crystal Palace?

Chalobah initially endured a frustrating start to life at Selhurst Park, missing his first three games with the Eagles through injury.

Nevertheless, he has since made five starts in the centre of defence, Palace not conceding more than twice in any of those fixtures.

The former England Under-21 international also got on the scoresheet during the 2-2 draw at Wolverhampton Wanderers on November 3.