The Chelsea fans in the Football Transfer Tavern have a few huge names on the way to the first team…
Much has been made of Chelsea’s inability to bring through young players into the first team, but the Chelsea fans in the Tavern could be on the eve of change.
A host of top quality youngsters are currently a part of the Chelsea developmental system, and they have given rise to the most sustained period of dominance in recent memory through the various youth levels.
Whilst many are not quite ready for the first team, there is no doubting that they perform fantastically together; and our landlord thinks that a five-a-side team made up of Chelsea players under 21 could be absolutely unstoppable.
With that said, this is the ultimate under-21 Chelsea five-a-side team…
GK – Bradley Collins
Compared to most of his teammates, Bradley Collins has received very little attention – and it is tough to see why.
Granted, Collins is unlikely to ever be a first choice goalkeeper for Chelsea, given Thibaut Courtois’ position in the first team – but his credentials speak for themselves.
He is a UEFA Youth League Winner and Youth Cup winner, and has become the backbone of the most successful youth team in recent memory.
He would no doubt continue that fine form into the 5-a-side variant of the game.
DEF – Ola Aina
Ola Aina has taken his first steps into the Chelsea first team as of late, becoming a backup on the right-hand side of the Chelsea defence – and he has looked impressive in the process.
Strong in the tackle, excellent offensively – Aina has it all; and he will be a starter at Chelsea one day.
His pace and efficiency will be crucial in this 5-a-side team.
MID – Ruben Loftus-Cheek
Ruben Loftus-Cheek is the most well known under-21 player in the Chelsea first team, and with good reason.
Able to rampage forward and defend well, shoot from distance and pass to feet; Loftus-Cheek has it all.
He has found his opportunities limited in the first team this season, but he would dominate this midfield.
FWD – Dominic Solanke
Whilst 5-a-side teams usually only opt for 1 striker; the Blues are blessed with offensive depth – and this striking partnership could prove absolutely unstoppable.
Solanke has fallen off the radar somewhat in recent weeks as he is amidst a contract dispute, but the young English forward is absolutely prolific.
His particular strength is the efficiency of his shots – he has an absurdly high conversion rate; and that will be vital for this team
FWD – Tammy Abraham
Everyone knows about Tammy Abraham.
The young forward is on fire for Bristol City, and is currently the highest goalscorer in the Championship.
He will likely find himself back at Chelsea next season, and he could be set for superstardom in a matter of months.
For now, though, he’s stuck in this 5-a-side team – and goals will surely come.
