What an occasion for Reggie Walsh. At just 16 years old, the midfielder has become the third youngest starter in Chelsea history.
has handed the highly-rated Walsh a shock start in the second leg of the Conference League semi-final against Djurgarden. The have a three-goal cushion after a 4-1 win in Sweden seven days ago, meaning Maresca has chopped and changed his side a bit.
Walsh is the third youngest starter - in a competitive match - in the club's history, behind Ian Hamilton and Kingsley Whiffen. Walsh is a boyhood Blue and grew up very close to Stamford Bridge.
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Known for his ability and confidence while on the ball, Walsh has been used predominantly in the midfield for the club's academy. Walsh has been at Chelsea since the age of seven, progressing through the ranks at Cobham - all leading up to a momentous occasion such as this evening.
The midfielder, who has represented England at Under-15, U16 and U17 levels, made his U18 debut for the Blues on the opening day of the season - summing up his incredibly quick rise. He was spotted training with the first team on Wednesday afternoon, so there was always a chance he would be in tonight's squad but very few - including Walsh himself, you would think - expected Maresca to name him in his line-up.
This is Walsh's second appearance for Chelsea's senior side now after . A big stage for Walsh to showcase his talent, but Maresca clearly feels as if the midfielder is ready for what is ahead of him.
Here is the full Chelsea line-up: Jorgensen; Gusto, Tosin, Badiashile, Cucurella; Acheampong, James; Dewsbury-Hall, Walsh, Sancho; George.
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