Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic has admitted that he is motivated to impress Enzo Maresca during his loan spell at Strasbourg.
Despite spending the majority of the second half of 2023-24 as Chelsea's number one, it was quickly determined that Petrovic would not be required by Mauricio Pochettino's successor.
Robert Sanchez was immediately restored to first choice, with Filip Jorgensen having been acquired from Villarreal to act as his deputy.
As a result, Petrovic was the last of four Chelsea players to make the move to Strasbourg - who share the same owners - during the summer transfer window.
The Serbia international was immediately drafted into Liam Rosenior's starting lineup and is yet to feature on the losing side in three appearances.
On Sunday evening, Petrovic became the first goalkeeper to keep a clean sheet against free-scoring Marseille this season, Strasbourg impressively recording a 1-0 triumph at Stade de la Meinau.
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Petrovic reveals motivation
Speaking after the match, as per France Belu Alsace on X, Petrovic acknowledged that Rosenior has told him to expect to have the ball at his feet more than any of his outfield teammates.
Maresca is said to have deemed that Petrovic is not as equipped as Sanchez in that department, subsequently resulting in him moving to a team in Strasbourg who are playing in a similar manner to Chelsea.
From Petrovic's perspective, it appears as though he has accepted the challenge with open arms in an effort to return to Stamford Bridge next season.
The 24-year-old said "I have big responsibility on my chest to show my qualities because I have played in the Premier League at the highest level.
"I am just focused about Strasbourg and the next game.
He added: "It is still my goal to be number one at Chelsea and for one of the best teams in the world."
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Will Maresca be taking note?
Maresca has made it clear to Sanchez and Jorgensen that he is prepared to risk mistakes in defence through deploying a strategy where either goalkeeper prioritises short passes over long.
Sanchez made two errors during Saturday's 4-2 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, yet Maresca staunchly defended the Spaniard.
If Petrovic can show his capabilities on the ball, however, there is still scope for him to return to the senior ranks under the Italian or be sold for a profit elsewhere.
Darren Plant
