Mauricio Pochettino has been dealt a major injury blow ahead of Chelsea’s clash against Tottenham Hotspur, so the Blues boss has called up one of the academy’s top youngsters

Mauricio Pochettino has named Josh Acheampong in the Chelsea squad to face Tottenham Hotspur. The Blues welcome the Lilywhites to Stamford Bridge on Thursday evening as either side hopes to climb the Premier League table.

Chelsea will be eager to return to winning ways following a dramatic 2-2 draw against Aston Villa at the weekend. The West London outfit has won just two of their last five games in the English top flight, but they remain in contention for Europa League qualification.

Pochettino’s side trail Manchester United in sixth and Newcastle in seventh by six and five points, respectively. However, Chelsea have a game in hand over the two clubs, who each have a few difficult fixtures of their own to play.

While the Blues boss will be keen to end the season well, several players have been ruled out of action due to injury. With some big names sidelined, Pochettino has been left no choice but to name an increasing number of academy prospects in his matchday squads.

One of which is Acheampong, who’s become a familiar face of late. So, with that being said, football.london has taken a look at exactly who the teenager is and why he’s so highly rated at Stamford Bridge.

Position

Acheampong has predominantly featured as right-back this season, though he’s also enjoyed spells at centre-half and wing-back. The 17-year-old’s incredible versatility across the backline provides Pochettino with plenty of options, especially during an injury crisis.

Statistics

Acheampong has featured eight times for Chelsea in the Under-18 Premier League this season, scoring once and providing three assists. His impressive performances at Cobham have earned him a place in the first-team matchday squad on numerous occasions.

In March, he appeared on the bench against Newcastle and Burnley in the Premier League before earning a call-up to the squad against Leicester City in the FA Cup quarterfinal. Acheampong was also named in the travelling Blues setup that faced Aston Villa at the weekend.

 

The England youth international is yet to make his senior debut, but he’ll certainly be hoping for a few minutes in the Premier League before the end of the season.

Contract

Acheampong, who joined Chelsea as an under-eight, signed his first professional contract at the start of the year, keeping him at Stamford Bridge until June 2026. After putting pen to paper, the Blues’ head of youth development and recruitment heaped praise on the youngster.

“We are thrilled that Josh has committed his future to the club,” said Jim Fraser. “He has taken another step forward in his development this season, something reflected in his performances for club and country.”