Chelsea midfielder N’Golo Kante has played down talk that he could make a move away from Stamford Bridge in the near future. Real Madrid had been linked with a bid for the 28-year-old in recent weeks, but when asked about his future in a recent interview, the Frenchman replied:

“Of course (I could finish my career at Chelsea), today I am with Chelsea until 2023. So, in my head, I hope to continue to have great seasons with Chelsea until 2023.”

Asked specifically whether he would consider playing in a different league before the end of his career, Kante was pretty emphatic with his response:

“No, not really.”

Kante’s words will be a big boost to the club and manager Frank Lampard. The midfielder has struggled with injuries this season with knee, ankle and groin problems leading him to miss out on seven league games already.

He did, though, return to action for the 2-0 win over Crystal Palace and while he wasn’t at his imperious best, Lampard will be hoping that he can stay fit through the international break and come out raring to go for the busy festive period.