Jamie Gittens feels "more confident now" at Chelsea after recovering from a long-term hamstring injury.

The 21-year-old joined Chelsea last summer, but made his last appearance on January 31 after suffering a hamstring injury in a win over West Ham.

Gittens made 27 appearances for Chelsea last season after joining from Borussia Dortmund, though started only 12 of those matches, while scoring once and providing five assists.

Despite his injury and lack of minutes, Gittens completed the fourth-most dribbles (36) of any Chelsea player last season (not including the Club World Cup) and recorded the fifth-most take-on ending carries (45).

Gittens has now returned from injury as he takes part in Chelsea's pre-season campaign, and the winger feels revitalised.

"I'm feeling, I would say, more confident now – in my body as well," Gittens told CFC+.

"The injury that happened [impacted my first season], but I'm feeling better every day. I'm trying to improve every day to be the best version of myself.

"It's been good to be back with the boys. I'm really enjoying it right now, and it's been really good to be part of this team."

Gittens has impressed in pre-season, scoring in the Blues' 6-4 win over Western Sydney Wanderers while assisting their only goal in a 2-1 defeat to Tottenham.

Xabi Alonso's side begin their Premier League campaign on August 24, when they face rivals Fulham at Craven Cottage.