"?Antonio Conte has had some good news regarding centre-back Kurt Zouma ahead of the Blues' pre-season, after the defender came revealed that he is making progress following a serious injury.
The imposing defender made his Chelsea debut back in September of 2014 and was turning into a key figure prior to his horror injury almost three months ago.
Speaking to The Sun this week about his condition, Zouma said: "I don't know when I'll be back out on the pitch but everything is going well, I'm kicking the ball around a bit "? I'm not in any pain and I feel good."
The 21-year-old was destined to be a part of France's Euro 2016 squad this summer, however his knee injury suffered against Manchester United means he will miss the tournament.
The defender's recovery looks on schedule, and believes he may play by the end of the year. The Frenchman added: "I hope so; I think I've got enough time to be ready. But I don't have a precise date."
Conte has yet to make a single signing this summer, as the manager focuses on the European Championships himself with national team Italy. The manager is known to be a strict defensive and organised coach, seeing his Juventus side concede the least goals in the league in his final season with the club, leading them to their 30th Serie A title.
He is one manager that actually possesses a better record in Serie A than ex-Chelsea hero, Jose Mourinho.
Conte v Mourinho Serie A record. There is only one 'Special One'... pic.twitter.com/Dzu42AFRN9
There's no doubting that Conte will make use of Zouma this season when fit, as the defender has the potential to be world-class. At just 21-years-old Zouma has featured in 132 games in all competitions and twice for the national team. When he regains fitness, big things await the defender.