Poch challenges Lukaku to face-to-face talks

A lot of work awaits Mauricio Pochettino at Cobham ahead of the start of the new Premier League season. Chelsea had an awful season, with plenty of uncertainties in terms of squad, depth and quality. Many players on loan, including robust striker Romelu Lukaku, should be returning to the Blues for the next EPL campaign, and it's now up to the Argentine gaffer to decide what to do with the Belgian.

Asked about Lukaku in his first official press conference as the new Chelsea boss, Pochettino said Lukaku is still a Chelsea player and that he expects him at training next week.

"Everyone knows what we think," he said of the situation. "In that case, he needs to come back on the 12th or 13th to be part of the squad to start pre-season. When he arrives, the first thing he'll do is come to my office and say hello. If he is still a Chelsea player, I expect the same."

Pochettino admitted he is 'proud' to be the Chelsea manager and is 'proud' of his past - despite his links to rivals Tottenham.

"It was one year waiting. I am so proud to be here. I think it's a great opportunity to be back in the Premier League for me, the best league in the world and of course, I think Chelsea convinced me to be here.

"I am very proud of my past, I don't want to talk in a different way, but now I need to look forward and concentrate on what the people want from me in this football club and hope to build a very good relationship with everyone."

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Asked if he was thinking about being the special one, the Blues boss was adamant.

"I want to give the people who put their trust in me everything. I need to build a relationship with the fans. They know me because of my past, but I am now committed to Chelsea.

"The fans need to engage with the idea and philosophy and we can create something special. We can win if we believe and are all together."