Former Chelsea captain Gary Cahill has urged patience with manager Mauricio Pochettino's team.

Cahill, however, also says the players signed are on trial.

“It is clear that it is going to take time," Cahill told the London Evening Standard.

“The average age of the squad is very, very young. I was at the League Cup Final and they had chances to win that. It would have been a good moment for them. But the squad is still growing, learning and adapting to all the changes.

“That's not going to happen overnight. They need patience to get to where they need to and how they grow. It is understandable why there is frustration. But the manager has experience with big clubs and big players so, yes, it will be good in time.

“The cups have been important. The FA Cup is another chance to have that day out, to develop while trying to win a trophy here and there. This young squad needs to develop before seeing where they can get to."

Cahill continued: “I've enjoyed watching Levi [Colwill], who is developing all the time. He has got bags and bags of potential.

“I like [Conor] Gallagher, who I think is one of the best players at the moment. I like the way he goes about his game, his pressing, his professionalism, and him just being a great footballer. I believe his attributes can rub off on the rest of the squad. That would be great.

“I think Enzo [Fernandez] and [Moises] Caicedo's midfield partnership is coming on and getting stronger. Cole Palmer is having a fantastic season and is a shining light. I think [Axel] Disasi and [Malo] Gusto have adapted to Chelsea.

"It is not just about adapting to the Premier League but a club like Chelsea. That's what these players are grasping and learning. If they can't handle it, they won't stay here, but that's what I mean by how this season is useful for developing a potentially better next season or two."