CHELSEA have handed a start to a 16-YEAR-OLD doing his GCSEs against Djurgarden.
Reggie Walsh was named alongside the likes of Reece James, Jadon Sancho and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
PAReggie Walsh was named in the starting XI for Chelsea against Djurgarden[/caption]
He made a sub-appearance in the first legGetty
Walsh, 16 years and 200 days, is currently in Year 11 at school and is the Blues’ youngest debutant since Ian Hamilton in 1967.
The midfielder is currently in the middle of his GCSEs and may have had to skip out on some revision in order to play.
Manager Enzo Maresca has spoken about the decision to hand the dream start to the teenager.
The Italian claimed that Walsh has “something” and is confident in his ability.
He said: “His talent is very good.
“Technique is fantastic. I really like him. Between the lines is good, you can see immediately he has something.
“For sure at 17, 18, he needs to work hard and continue. I like also the personality, he’s worked with us during the season.
“He’s not shy, he’s asking for the ball, he’s shouting and talking. I like it, he’s a good player.
Chelsea went into the Conference League semi-final second leg in a strong position.
The West London outfit romped to a 4-1 win against the Swedish side at the 3Arena last week.
In the first leg, Walsh made his European debut as he came on as a late sub for Tyrique George.
The Blues took a four-goal lead in the match through Sancho, Noni Madueke and a brace from Nicolas Jackson.
However, the minnows did get one back through Isak Alemayehu Mulugeta in the 68th minute.
Former Chelsea star Joe Cole asked Maresca about Walsh on TNT Sports.
Maresca claimed that the youngster “almost had the quality” of Cole as he sang his praises.
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