Chelsea midfielder Cesare Casdadei has sent a message to manager with his impact on the international stage.

The 21-year-old spent the first half of last season playing under the now boss during a loan spell with Leicester City. He was recalled back to Stamford Bridge in January where he made the odd appearance from the bench in the second half of the season.

Maresca followed Casadei to Chelsea in the summer. But, despite the two knowing each other well, the midfielder has struggled to make a real breakthrough into the first team this season.

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He has been an unused substitute in just two games, but has been left out of the squad for the rest. Casadei’s only appearances this season have come in the and the third round against Barrow.

During the international break, the midfielder is away on international duty with Italy’s U21 team, and it’s not taken him long to show what he can do.

Casadei was named in the starting XI against France, and scored the opening goal in a friendly match against France. The goal is his second in as many games for his nation this season, after also scoring in the 1-1 draw against Ireland U21s last month.

Casadei and Italy U21s will be back in action on Tuesday evening when they take on Ukraine. Another good performance is likely to catch the eye of Maresca.

The goal comes as a potential transfer decision over Casadei is set to be made ahead of the January window. A lack of game time could see the midfielder move away from Chelsea on loan as he looks to build up more experience.

The Italian was also linked with a permanent move away from Stamford Bridge in the summer. However, indicates that he’s not thinking of a January move.

"The transfer rumours about Napoli, Milan and even Juve? After speaking to the coach, I was 100% sure that the decision to stay would be the best," he said.

"Maresca told me what he thought, I had no doubts. I stayed here without considering possible loans. Nor do I think so at the moment for the next winter transfer market.

"I couldn’t be more proud to play for Chelsea. The competitive spirit was one of the reasons why I decided not to leave."