Reports have claimed that Chelsea youngster Carney Chukwuemeka really impressed in a behind closed doors friendly with the first team.
According to the Evening Standard, the young Englishman, as well as Denis Zakaria, took their chance to impress in front of new manager Graham Potter.
Neither player was handed an appearance by former man in charge Thomas Tuchel, although Chukwuemeka was frequently getting glowing reviews from training sessions.
Even now, reports are still claiming that the 18-year-old is impressing in training, with Potter notably impressed by him.
He may well have been involved in the matchday squad for Saturday’s victory over Crystal Palace, although a bout of illness ruled him and full-back Marc Cucurella out of the squad.
However, the Evening Standard has claimed his performance in a private friendly impressed many at the club, as he featured among a host of first team players.
Chukwuemeka impresses in friendly
The Blues took on Brighton on the weekend when their game with Liverpool was postponed, with the Seagulls’ rivalry match with Crystal Palace also cancelled.
Chelsea won the game 2-1, with two second half goals from Chukwuemeka securing the win for the selection of Blues who didn’t start the draw to RB Salzburg in the Champions League.
Chukwuemeka was one of the several young signings acquired by Todd Boehly over the summer, however he is the one who has looked closest to breaking into the first team.
He already has Premier League experience, making his debut in the top flight last season with Aston Villa.
However, it was clear he saw his career going to a level above that of Steven Gerrard’s side, with him not willing to sign a new deal at Villa Park.
With many top European clubs wanting him, Chelsea got the deal done, and will now look to reap the rewards of his talent this season.