Former Chelsea youngster Bertrand Traore says he had to leave Stamford Bridge as there was no guarantee of first-team football.

The Blues lost a number of youth prospects over the summer, the likes of Dominic Solanke, Nathan Ake, Nathaniel Chalobah also leaving on permanent deals after struggling to make a first-team breakthrough.

Traore has impressed since joining Lyon in a deal worth £9million, scoring four goals including one against Everton in the Europa League earlier in October.

“Going from Chelsea was the best decision for me. I am enjoying myself, as a young player you can only improve if you are playing every week,” Traore told Daily Mail.

“I enjoyed my time at Chelsea and when I had opportunities to show what I could do on the pitch, I took them with both hands. But there wasn't any guarantee I would play.

“Yes, I would be happy if it was me in the Chelsea first team playing every weekend, but this is football and you have to take decisions. Along with Chelsea, I took the decision to sign for Lyon and I am happy with that."

Traore has not ruled out a future return to Stamford Bridge, adding: “Why not, it is up to me to develop and progress as a player and prove that I am good enough to play in the Premier League.

“Others went back, it is a possibility. I have to focus on Lyon, do my best and see what I do in the future."

Chelsea currently have 34 players out on loan.