'I’ve demanding of him' – Liam Rosenior reveals challenge he’s set Joao Pedro

Liam Rosenior has explained why he’s demanding more from Joao Pedro between now and the end of the season.

The Blues signed Pedro last summer from Brighton in a deal worth up to £60m, and the Brazilian has enjoyed a successful first season.

Pedro has scored 19 goals in all competitions, with 14 of those coming in the Premier League, and he’s made the number nine position his own.

Liam Rosenior on his challenge for Joao Pedro

The Brazil international is arguably the only player to show significant improvement since Rosenior arrived in Janaury.

Rosenior admitted he wouldn’t swap Pedro for any striker in world football, and he’s looking to become the first Chelsea striker since Costa to score 20 league goals in a season.

Pedro believes he’s having one of the best seasons of his life, and Rosenior has explained why he’s demanding more from the former Brighton man.

“Joao is someone that everybody knows has got extreme potential, but now he’s at an age where he has to go on and fulfil that potential,” he told Chelsea’s website.

“Nothing would make me happier than to see him score more goals, help us win the FA Cup and qualify for the Champions League, and wear the number nine shirt for Brazil in the World Cup.

“I’ve challenged him. I’m demanding of him. So far, he’s taken up that challenge really, really well.”

Chelsea have reportedly added Nottingham Forest’s Murillo to their shortlist this summer, as they search for a new centre back.

The Blues have been previously linked with Murillo, and it’ll be interesting to see if they make a move, whilst they are also thought to be keeping an eye on Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke, but whether they move for either player remains to be seen.