Rafa Benitez not ready to recall on-loan Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku

Chelsea boss Rafael Benitez has ruled out the possibility of striker Romelu Lukaku making an early return from his loan spell with West Brom.

The 19-year-old has scored five Premier League goals so far this season, after being farmed out to the Hawthorns club in order to gain more experience.

But, despite Blues striker Fernando Torres having struggled for form this campaign, Benitez insists the west London club are not considering exercising their right to bring Lukaku back in January.

“We know Romelu has been doing very well for West Brom," he told reporters.

“But it’s maybe best for him to stay there where he is playing games for now, as it will be better for his future development.”

Lukaku made just 12 appearances in total last term as Torres and Didier Drogba battled for a first-team berth at Stamford Bridge.