Paul Merson was extremely complimentary of one player in Chelsea’s 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Cole Palmer gave the Blues the lead in the first half but the home side bounced back after the break and made it difficult for Enzo Maresca’s side.
Jean-Philippe Mateta eventually scored with eight minutes left in normal time to take two points away from the West London club.
But despite the disappointing result, Merson was quick to praise one Chelsea player for his ‘amazing’ performance.
Paul Merson heaps praise on ‘amazing’ Josh Acheampong
Palmer scored Chelsea’s only goal and it was Jadon Sancho who expertly assisted the midfielder, but Merson took the time to speak about someone else on Sky Sports.
“The young kid, [Josh] Acheampong, was very good for an 18-year-old coming into that Chelsea team,” Merson said about the youngster making his first Premier League start.
“[He was] absolutely outstanding today – didn’t put a foot wrong. He passed one ball out of play but bar that, didn’t put a foot wrong. Amazing.”
Acheampong looked comfortable alongside Levi Colwill throughout the match and Mateta’s goal was not his fault.
Perhaps Maresca has found a replacement for the injured Wesley Fofana without dipping into the transfer market.
Josh Acheampong deserves more playing time after Crystal Palace performance
Colwill and Fofana had formed a strong defensive partnership until the latter unfortunately suffered a hamstring injury.
Summer signing Tosin Adarabioyo had filled in for the Frenchman in recent weeks and put in some decent performances but not enough to nail down the place.
Meanwhile, Axel Disasi’s minutes should be limited to cup games as he’s simply not good enough to start for Chelsea in the Premier League.
However, one man who could be ready to replace Fofana is Acheampong. Of course, it’s only been one game, but the 18-year-old should only improve as he gains experience – and he has started his Blues career well.
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