Rosenior has sought to offer Fernandez an olive branch and a route forward following the punishment.

The midfielder has continued to train with the first‑team squad and, at present, there has been no indication he will be stripped of his leadership role.

After the Port Vale game - which Fernandez watched from behind the Chelsea bench - Rosenior said things are "not what people think" between the two of them.

"In the right time, in the right moment, I'm sure the discussion will happen in terms of what's been said between me and Enzo," he added.

"Enzo and I are in a very good place. Things aren't what people maybe think they are."

The former Strasbourg, Hull City and Derby County boss has also chosen not to respond publicly to Fernandez's representatives, who have since insisted their client never said he wanted to leave Chelsea or London, nor referenced Real by name.

However, a wide‑ranging interview from Fernandez's camp also claimed he "deserves much more than he is currently earning", while further reports in Argentina have suggested attempts were made this week to have the suspension reduced.

The scrutiny is...