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Levi Colwill has NO guarantees he will start for Chelsea next season, warns boss Mauricio Pochettino - who says the defender must earn his place as he prepares to sign new six-year deal

There are no guarantees Levi Colwill will start the season in Chelsea’s defence, says Mauricio Pochettino, who has challenged him to prove his readiness to play.

Colwill is close to signing a new six-year deal in a significant boost for the club, especially given the interest in the talented 20-year-old.

Brighton — where Colwill spent last season on loan — have made two bids for him this summer and he posted a parting thank-you message to the Seagulls yesterday ahead of confirmation of his Chelsea extension.

The expected playing opportunities were a factor in Colwill’s willingness to commit to Chelsea and, in the immediate future, his prospects of game time appear good with fellow left-footed centre back Benoit Badiashile recovering from a serious hamstring injury.