KING KURT: Zouma is on track to become a Chelsea star [GETTY]

The French youngster linked up with the Blues for pre-season training last summer after the west Londoners bought him from Saint Etienne in January before loaning him back to the French side.

Mourinho admits he felt Zouma was not quite ready for first-team action in August, with regular right-back Branislav Ivanovic earmarked as the deputy for centre-backs John Terry and Gary Cahill.

"He is playing more than I expected, more than he expected and more than everyone expected so he is getting experience levels which are very important," Mourinho said.

"I thought Ivanovic would be my first option to replace John and Gary in a game and he is not anymore.

"We bought him because of his physical profile. We were not happy with his tactical knowledge but we trusted we could give him that.

"When in pre-season we saw mistakes from him I thought okay, no problem, but it will take time."

Mourinho reckons Zouma has what it takes to emulate Chelsea legend John Terry.

Captain Terry is set to extend his stay at the club beyond the end of the season by penning fresh terms at Stamford Bridge.

And Mourinho reckons Zouma will be able to replace the former England skipper when he calls time on his playing career.

He added: "Zouma is now 20 years old and one day he will be 23, 24 and a player with great maturity, probably even with leadership to replace John because this season he is playing more than I expected, more than he expected and more than everyone expected so he is getting experience levels which are very important."