Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel believes Hakim Ziyech is being limited by some factors as he continues to struggle for regular playing time this season.
The 28-year-old has only made five appearances so far in all competitions, which include a start in the Premier League.
Ziyech has found it difficult to regain his spot in the Blues' starting XI since he suffered a shoulder injury in their Uefa Super Cup triumph over Villarreal back in August.
After watching as an unused substitute in Chelsea’s Champions League victory Malmo on Wednesday, Tuchel said Ziyech is still an "important player" for the team but he needs time and patience to find his form.
“He fought his way into the team, he was in the team in the beginning of the season because of performance, because it was so obvious after the pre-season that he has to be on the pitch,” the German coach said in a press conference ahead of Saturday's Premier League match against Norwich City.
