Frank Lampard got a first home win as Chelsea boss thanks to goals from Ross Barkley, Michy Batshuayi’s brace, Pedro’s penalty, Kurt Zouma, Reece James and Callum Hudson-Odoi.
But the bigger picture was Chelsea ending the game with a total of 6 (majority) youth products on the pitch as they thrashed Grimsby Town 7-1.
Let’s have a look at the 6 academy graduates who were handed their debuts last night –
1 . Billy Gilmour
Delighted to make my full professional debut @ChelseaFC 🔵 What A Night!🤩 #CFC pic.twitter.com/i2JXFrDQTI
— Billy Gilmour (@billygilmourrr) September 25, 2019
Billy Gilmour made 96 passes in the game and completed 93% of them. Controlled the entire game at just 18 years old. The future of Chelsea’s midfield.
2. Reece James
Pick of the bunch? 🤔
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) September 26, 2019
👏 @ReeceJames_24 pic.twitter.com/5d5no4v8oK
Labeled as a ‘generational talent’, Reece James – who took the Championship by storm last season – had a Chelsea debut to remember with a goal and two assists.
3. Marc Guehi
Marc Guehi vs Grimsby https://t.co/mNC4V0k1ya
— Chelsea Loan Army (@ChelseaLoanArmy) September 26, 2019
Another youngster who impressed on his Chelsea debut. Got forward early to start the move that led to Chelsea’s second. Composed at the back and did well to cover for Alonso’s defensive frailties. Very promising performance for the young defender.
4 . Callum Hudson-Odoi
Could have easily had a hat-trick, Callum Hudson-Odoi scored in his first game back with Chelsea since rupturing his Achilles in April.
5. Tino Anjorin
Lampard with a brief word and off we go pic.twitter.com/Q4XjWbl0IJ
— Nizaar Kinsella (@NizaarKinsella) September 25, 2019
Another 17-year-old who made his debut last night and looked like he belonged right from the off as he floated through the midfield, leaving defenders on the ground.
6. Ian Maatsen
There was a lot of fluidity in movement on the left flank when Ian Maatsen came on. Chelsea might just have another Ashley Cole in their hands.