“He don’t deserve to be benched his performance was top notch but he needs coordination, Brilliant’: Chelsea Manager Pochettino stunned by what he saw from 20-year-old talent at Stamford Bridge
Alfie Gilchrist made his full Chelsea debut in the FA Cup triumph over Preston North End.
Chelsea have discovered a fresh homegrown talent who excites fans, and Mauricio Pochettino has taken notice after giving young Alfie Gilchrist his first Chelsea start against Preston North End.
The 20-year-old showed character when he came on to finish the game against Crystal Palace, which led to minutes against Luton in the Premier League, but it was against Preston in the League Cup that he proved he belonged.
As the Blues turned on the style in the second half to overcome Championship side Preston North End in the FA Cup, he won four of six tackles he attempted and had 96% passing accuracy. The victory was predicted, but in a season where the spotlight has been on the expensively assembled stars, another home-field talent is enthralling spectators.
Some of them resorted to X, formerly Twitter, to express their delight. “Alfie (Gilchrist) is one of our own and it’s easy to see why John Terry likes him,” Derrick Gyan posted on his Twitter page. Brilliant.”
Another handle-equipped fan “Probably the only positive from that half,” Felix Johnstone said. Despite being a natural center-back, he made a number of great tackles and clearances, remained collected in the box, and made runs.”
“Couldn’t be happier for him and the entire family,” said Ned Ozkasim. Starting a senior game at Stamford Bridge is a dream come true. Really solid performance, looked very comfortable on the ball, and very composed defensively – especially playing in an unfamiliarRB position.
