Danny Drinkwater has recalled an incident when he was told an hour before the transfer deadline that he was unwanted by then-Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri.

The English midfielder's nightmare at Stamford Bridge is finally over, having left on a free transfer after 23 appearances in six years.

Asked about his exit from Chelsea, the 32-year-old told Sky Sports: "I'm relieved, because it's clear it wasn't a situation that was good for me or the club.

"I'm angry because of how it's gone and how I was treated - not bitter though, what ifs. It was a long time coming."

As an example of his frustration at Chelsea, Drinkwater explained a clash with Sarri back in 2018.

He told Sky Sports: "It got to the last hour of the transfer window and [I] got pulled into the office, not expected at all.

"'Don't think you're going to be in our plans'. This is Sarri, being translated by Gianfranco. And I was like 'what?'

"Sarri and I got on like a house on fire off the pitch. On the pitch, we were like chalk and cheese. I was like - 'why are you telling me now? An hour before the window closes? I need time'. He replied, 'No, no, we've got clubs abroad you can look at…'

"My reaction was - 'No, I've got my young son. He is my priority'. So I decided to stay until January."