The on loan Blues midfielder had a rough start in Italy but is finally showing he can perform on the biggest stages

Chelsea’s Tiemoue Bakayoko always believed he would find his feet on loan at AC Milan and reckons he can only get better after recent good performances.

Manager Gennaro Gattuso was vocal about how poor the Frenchman was in the early stages of the season, when limited to just cameos.

3 AC Milan star Tiemoue Bakayoko applauds the supporters

There was also speculation the midfielder would have his loan cut short given his disappointing displays.

Now, though, after four starts in two weeks, the 24-year-old is finally proving how good he can be in the absence of Lucas Biglia, earning praise from his boss.

“He deserved a night like this. Tactically and physically he was devastating. He seemed like a giant, especially in the first half. Also technically he didn’t do many mistakes, Gattuso said after the 3-2 win over Genoa at the end of October.

3 Bakayoko plays a pass against Juventus

Meanwhile, Gazzetta dello Sport highlighted that in his last three games, Bakayoko has won more duels (26), more aerial duels (eight) and recovered more balls (24) than any of his teammates.

And Bakayoko is proud of himself and his progression at the San Siro.

3 Bakayoko struggled in his early days at AC Milan

Asked about how he had progressed, he told Milan TV: “In small steps, I took my time, I knew it would not be easy, but I think we have seen a very good Bakayoko in the last few games.

“Now I can only improve.

Latest Football Stories goss Man United news live: Former player's plan without Sancho as club set to lose £140m legacy Aubameyang admits he nearly left Arsenal and reveals two factors which made him stay GOSS Liverpool news live: Mbappe 'available for £91m', Klopp talks to manager about striker goss Chelsea news: Loftus-Reek wanted, Rice to tell West Ham he wants move, Mendy unveiled oldies West Brom consider shock move for ex-Arsenal and City veteran after signing Ivanovic NEWS Chelsea ace wanted, Mendy unveiled, Suarez's tearful Barca exit, Leeds done deal next addition? Wolves move ahead of Man United in chase for experienced Juventus winger cup clash Lincoln v Liverpool: Jota on bench but no Thiago as Arsenal await winner Goss Arsenal news: Aubameyang admits exit thoughts, Chelsea alternative to Aouar and Partey lofty ambition Chelsea midfielder in demand as Saints join Premier League rivals in chase

“I did not get stronger than a month ago, I was the same player you faced from the beginning, I just feel better in the team now, I store the tactical information more easily and I easily understand the position to keep in the field.

“I feel safer than a few weeks ago, it’s true, I needed to play to and now I’m finally meshing.”