If Potter decides to reward the youngster, he could see first-team action against Crystal Palace after the international break on October 1.

savison woods
3 Min Read

Chelsea played a behind-closed-doors friendly against Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday, September 17, in the absence of the Blues’ match against Liverpool, football.london understands. The west Londoners were scheduled to host Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool on Sunday, September 18, but the Premier League match was rescheduled for a later date due to Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral on Monday.

Those who appeared in the Champions League match against RB Salzburg midweek did not appear at the Amex Stadium where the game was played. Chelsea won 2-1, with both goals coming from Carney Chukwuemeka, who has yet to make his Chelsea debut after joining from Aston Villa in the summer for a fee of £20 million.

Read alsoGraham Potter faced with expected problems as new Chelsea era starts in familiar fashion

The 18-year-old will have impressed on the south coast, giving Graham Potter food for thought at a time when Chelsea’s midfield is facing an uncertain future. Jorginho and N’Golo Kante’s contracts will expire next summer, and Mateo Kovacic, Mason Mount, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek will all leave on free transfers the following year.
Chukwuemeka has a bright future at Chelsea, with Potter signing a five-year contract upon his arrival and many of the current midfielders on the verge of leaving. And two goals against the Seagulls could be enough to earn the 17-year-old a chance under the 47-year-old.

Todd Boehly, speaking to the club’s website shortly after the midfielder’s arrival, described Chukwuemeka as one of Europe’s top talents. According to the American billionaire: “Carney is one of Europe’s most exciting young players, and we can’t wait to see him in action at Stamford Bridge. We are thrilled to be able to bring him to Chelsea and add such a gifted young player to our squad for the upcoming season and beyond.”
Chukwuemeka then commented on his own arrival, saying: “It’s been a hectic few days, but I couldn’t get Chelsea out of my head, so I’m just happy and relieved that it’s all done. I’m overjoyed and can’t wait to get on the field, meet all the players, and help Chelsea win games and trophies.”

Share this Article
1 Comment