Nathaniel Chalobah believes the Chelsea youth players face a barrier in breaking into the first team because of the "high standards" the club sets its squad.

The 22-year-old has risen up through the ranks at Chelsea, captaining the side that won the 2012 FA Youth Cup before going out on a series of loan spells which included Watford, Burnley and Italian club Napoli.

He was called back into the Chelsea first-team squad following the arrival of Antonio Conte last summer, and went on to make 10 Premier League appearances, creating one goal, as the Blues stormed to the Premier League title.

Despite his ability to play in midfield and defence, Chalobah has opened up about the difficulties of getting a place, and then keeping one, in Conte's squad.

"I’ve learned every day," he said, speaking ahead of the England Under-21's victory over Poland at the European Championships.

"From [N'Golo] Kante, his work rate and ­defensive quality – he just got better on the ball as the season went on - [Nemanja] Matic, for his composure and ­passing, and Cesc’s passing and ­ability to pick up passes.

"It’s a very high standard at Chelsea, the club has an amazing academy and produces really top players. It’s just there’s that barrier of getting in there – and then staying in there."

He added: "You’re playing for one of the best teams in Europe – they’re now back in the Champions League – and the demand is high on winning.

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"We won the league and I have competition from European Cup winners, World Cup winners and full internationals. The manager Antonio Conte’s tactical awareness, his passion and desire to win all rub off on everyone."

Chalobah sustained a groin injury during England's 3-0 victory over Poland on Thursday night, and is fitness doubt for both the sem-final and final, should England progress.