Opinion

20-year-old Chelsea youngster absolutely took his chance to impress Enzo Maresca in first pre-season friendly

Add as preferred source on Google

The new Chelsea manager will no doubt have taken a number of positives from their first friendly of the summer against Wrexham.

Despite the scoreline being 2-2, Enzo Maresca insisted after the game he was more than pleased with what he saw as he continues to get his ideas across to his new players.

A number of players picked up roles they will not have been too familiar with. Ben Chilwell was operating in somewhat of a central defensive role during his minutes on the pitch in the second half.

After Christopher Nkunku’s opening goal, it looked as if there could be a shock on the cards as their lower-league opponents were in the lead with just a few minutes to go.

However, Lesley Ugochukwu stepped up with a late goal to spare some blushes, and enforce the fact that he absolutely made the most of his minutes last night.

Chelsea FC v Wrexham - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Lesley Ugochukwu impresses for Chelsea

The Frenchman was awarded the player of the game award despite being a half-time substitute, with him operating in a number 8 role that many have not seen him in much before.

There was a real chance that Chelsea fans would not be seeing Ugochukwu in pre-season at all, after he was originally set to represent his country at the Olympics.

Ugochukwu looking to stay at Chelsea this season

However, he will continue to show what he can do under Maresca, as he looks to prove he should remain in the first team squad going into next season.

Reports have claimed that Ugochukwu could be moving on loan this summer, however recent transfer rumours may have boosted his chances at remaining at the club.

Andrey Santos is set for his second loan to Strasbourg in an attempt to get him some regular minutes next season, and this could see some youngsters required for what will be a very busy season at Stamford Bridge.

The 20-year-old will no doubt be looking to continue to take his opportunity after making a great start against Wrexham.