Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku has continued to develop his talents and deserves a shot at starting for the Blues.

The 20-year-old Belgian, who is entering his first full season at Stamford Bridge, showed signs of an up and coming star while playing for West Bromwich Albion on a loan last season. Lukaku showed the Premier League plenty of finesse and creativity in attack for the Baggies. Playing most of the season as a teenager, Lukaku scored 17 goals and tallied four assists in 35 appearances at West Brom.

New Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho is impressed by the young talent but not completely sold on him. Speaking over the weekend in Asia, Mourinho made it clear that a transfer for Wayne Rooney is still a possibility. He believes the need for Rooney is based on the requirement for a little more skill and craft at the centre forward position.

That said, Romelu Lukaku appears to be in with a good chance of a starting spot up front for the London club along with Fernando Torres and Demba Ba. The Belgian continues to stay positive and loves the competitive atmosphere that Mourinho is creating when competing for a place in the starting XI.

“He is the manager and he has a vision of the way he wants to play,” said Lukaku. “The players have to improve to do that. I certainly have it in me. When you are playing for a team like Chelsea, there is going to be competition. I like competition from the first time I came here.”

Lakuku also sang the praises of his new manager in regards to his communication skills. “He is very direct. I would not say he has given me a hard time but he is very direct and in your face. I love that. It is important. If he has something to say to you he says it. That’s a good thing.” Lakuku stated.

Many experts have compared Lakaku to former Blues star Didier Drogba. For now he’ll continue to fight for a starting spot on Mourinho’s squad. Chelsea open up their Premier League campaign on the 18th of August at Stamford Bridge against Hull City.

Written by guest author Tom Jones.