Antonio Conte has underlined the importance of having "a core of English players" amid Chelsea's interest in Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.
As reported by Standard Sport earlier in August, Chelsea are increasingly confident of completing a deal worth £35million to sign the Arsenal winger, although they face competition from Liverpool.
Chelsea also continue to hold talks with Leicester City over Danny Drinkwater and are monitoring Everton's wantaway midfielder Ross Barkley.
Due to Gary Cahill's suspension against Tottenham last week, Chelsea didn't have any English players in the first XI.
Everton - the Blues' opponents on Sunday - had eight in their 1-1 draw with Manchester City the following day.
When asked if having a strong English presence is important to him at Chelsea, he said: "To have a core of English players, is important.
"But above all, to have a core of 'good' English players. Is it something I value? Yes, I do.”
