Benitez rules out Lukaku return

4 December 2012 09:37

Chelsea manager Rafael Benitez has ruled out 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 shipped out to the Hawthorns club in order to gain more experience.

But, despite Blues striker Fernando Torres struggling 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.