Thomas Tuchel has insisted he would not consider changing Chelsea’s style of play in order to accommodate Romelu Lukaku.
The striker has struggled for fitness and form since his big-money move back to Stamford Bridge from Inter Milan.
And Lukaku was recently disciplined for stating in television interview that he was unhappy under Tuchel and wanted to return to Inter in the near future.
Blues boss Tuchel was asked at a press conference on Monday if he could change his approach and perhaps play with a more direct style in order to get the best out of Lukaku.
“No, I think we do everything to help him,” the German replied.
“I think this is absolutely the wrong question because it’s focusing on one player.
“He’s a key player and we want him to be a key player, but this is not about (one player), this is a team sport and it’s not about 10 players serving one player – this is not Chelsea and this is not football.
“Every player serving the team; this is the highest principle and this will never change.”
Tuchel was also asked about Armando Broja’s long-term future.
The young Chelsea forward has impressed during his season-long loan at Southampton, who want to sign him on a permanent deal.
Tuchel said: “He’s our player and he’s doing good. But at the same time it’s only half-season.
“He needs to continue to improve and to make his statement at Southampton.
“Now is not the moment to discuss about someone. Now is the moment for him to stay calm and keep on improving.”
Broja is one of a number of Chelsea players currently out on loan.
There has been much speculation over the future of Conor Gallagher, who has been outstanding for Crystal Palace.
Tuchel said: “We have a reason why they are our players; they have quality, they have the mentality and now they are out there on their own, in different environments and proving themselves.
“Armando is getting better and better. He is a very unique player with some very unique strengths in his game – his speed, he’s robust and he’s a goalscorer.”