The Dutchman was then asked if there was a specific deadline for the return of Chiesa, who signed with Bradley in the summer.
“It’s always tough when you have an injury, especially if it’s just happened,” he answered. “It’s very difficult to see where they are after a few days, but I think after a few (more) days we’ll be able to say more precisely where they are.
“With Federico it’s a little more simple. It’s more difficult, but it’s a little easier to explain. As I’ve said many times, he missed the entire preseason and the intensity may be higher than in the Italian league. I can only say this now because I have just played against two teams from Italy.
“That makes it difficult for him to take a step towards the intensity level that the rest of the team has at the moment. It doesn’t have much to do with the Italian League or the Premier League, and it’s difficult for him to complete pre-season It has more to do with the fact that he was absent from the competition, and it’s very difficult for all players to grow towards their goals when there are always games to play.
“So it’s hard to say, but it’s a big disappointment for him that he’s always in and out of training sessions. I feel for him.
“But he has signed a long-term contract so we will see what he can bring to us. But at the moment unfortunately he has only been selected for team selection once or twice. No more, no more.”
