Chelsea boss Antonio Conte has ruled out a loan exit for Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

Conte has confirmed England U21 international midfielder Loftus-Cheek, 20, will remain at Stamford Bridge this season rather than be sent out on loan.

"He stays here," said the Italian after the Blues beat Bristol Rovers 3-2 at home in the EFL Cup second round tonight.

"I repeat it is right to improve the player in the squad but also to give the opportunity to a young player like Loftus with a great talent to stay with the first team and to help us."