This article contains affiliate links, and we will receive a commission on any sales generated from it. Chelsea stars are in training before facing Crystal Palace on Monday.
Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino has called up 14-year-old Charlie Holland to train with the senior team as they prepare for the upcoming clash with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Monday night. Holland, the youth team captain, was spotted in first-team training alongside players like Carney Chukwuemeka.
Mauricio Pochettino has been tasked with nurturing a very young Chelsea squad this season, including 14-year-old Holland, who trained alongside the likes of Thiago Silva. Holland had previously worked with the senior group, having done so last season under Frank Lampard’s caretaker charge last May.
His impressive performances led to a surprise inclusion in training ahead of their match with Nottingham Forest. While it is unlikely that Holland will be involved in the upcoming match with Crystal Palace, he is considered a talented player with a very bright future.
This opportunity is uncommon as youth players are typically promoted to the first team only when a large number of senior players are unavailable. Nevertheless, Pochettino believes in giving youth players a pathway to the team, providing opportunities for promising talents.
Despite a large transfer outlay, Pochettino has given a number of promising talents the opportunity to play this season, working with one of the youngest squads in the Premier League. The club has also recently acquired high-profile youngsters, adding to their history of producing world-class players.
The club’s decision to give Holland a chance to compete with one of the most expensive squads ever assembled reflects their belief in his potential as the latest star off their famed production line.