Like several of our Academy players, Ampah’s journey began early. He joined the Blues from grassroots football as an under-11 and it's at Cobham that much of his development as a player and a person has taken place.

He has lived out dreams formed as a young boy at Chelsea. Last December, the winger made his senior Blues debut in our UEFA Conference League win over Astana; it is a memory he treasures and one that fuels his determination to perform on that stage in the future.

This season, Ampah has established himself as a key figure in Calum McFarlane’s squad. He has featured in multiple competitions, including Premier League 2 and the Premier League International Cup, and it's in the latter that we host Paris Saint-Germain at Kingsmeadow on Wednesday evening.

Speaking fresh after training on the Academy pitches, Ampah reflected on his development during the current campaign, the growing responsibility he has within the group, and his excitement for another European test.

'So far, the season has been very good,' the 19-year-old begins with a smile. 'Before the season started, I was returning from an injury, so the priority was getting fully fit again.

'I had to build myself back up and take things step by step. Once I got going, I felt like I settled in really well. Each week I feel more comfortable and can see my progression, which is the main thing.

'Football is as much about understanding yourself as it is the game; I feel like I’ve grown a lot in that respect. Not just in my technical ability, but in how I read the pitch, make decisions and help the team in the moments that matter. Every match teaches me something new and helps me improve, which is what keeps me motivated.

'Personally, I think I’ve done well so far. I’m always looking at my performances critically, but overall I’m happy with how I’ve contributed. I try to bring energy and intent to every match, and even when things don’t go my way, I use it to learn and push myself further. It’s about being consistent and taking responsibility on the pitch.

'I enjoy being involved in the build-up and using my energy and movement to open things up. Over the past few months, I’ve learned to be more patient in possession too, knowing when to take risks and when to hold the ball.

'That balance has really helped me grow as a player and made me more aware of the little moments that can make a big difference in a game.

'As for the team, it's been really good! We’ve got a strong sense of chemistry within the Under-21s and everyone helps each other. That makes adapting a lot easier.

'I’ve learned so much just from playing alongside team-mates who’ve been here for years. Watching how they handle moments under pressure has taught me about leadership, decision-making and how to support those around you.'

One of Chelsea's core values, on and off the pitch, is unity. And Ampah was quick to highlight the strong connection he has with his Academy team-mates, many of whom he has grown up playing alongside.

'Relationships are huge,' he explains. 'When you have that connection, everything becomes more natural. You understand each other’s movements and what someone needs in certain moments. The game just flows better and it also gives you confidence knowing the person next to you trusts you.

'It’s also great to see some of the younger boys stepping into the squad and making their mark. Having them come in has helped me develop my leadership qualities. Those qualities aren’t just important on the pitch, they also shape how you carry yourself, how you communicate and how you respond to challenges.

'They teach you patience, responsibility and focus, which are lessons that go beyond football. Learning them early has been a big advantage and it’s helping me grow into the kind of player and person I want to be.'

Ampah is no stranger to testing himself against different opponents this season. Last time out in the Premier League International Cup, the Blues faced Dinamo Zagreb, falling to a narrow 2-1 defeat but with Ampah getting on the scoresheet himself. The young Blues will now be looking to return to winning ways against PSG.

The winger has also already had the chance to shine in the Under-19s UEFA Youth League, making five appearances and scoring a brace against Ajax. But what does the experience of playing European football offer?

'These are the games you want to be involved in,' Ampah says. 'They're exciting and big tests against some of the best young players in Europe.

'The European matches we’ve played so far have been excellent. The Youth League gives us the chance to test ourselves against top players from across the continent. It’s a massive stage to show what we’re about.

'Being Chelsea, we always want to make a statement every time we step onto that pitch. Playing against top teams pushes you. The intensity and pressure force you to raise your level. You need to think quicker, be sharper and adapt. All of that prepares you for men’s football.

'European sides are very smart in how they play. Many prioritise possession and controlling the game, which is something we also try to do. You have to stay switched on because they punish mistakes. Those games show a different side of your game. You need patience, discipline and courage on the ball.

'In the Academy, we’ve been taught well how to deal with different opponents and the pressures that come with it. Each game helps me understand how to control situations, make the right decisions under pressure and support my team-mates. So yeah, we’re ready to show what we can do against PSG again.'

Wednesday's fixture, which kicks off at 7pm, is being played at Kingsmeadow on the Under-21s’ home turf. And with tickets available, Ampah highlights the difference that playing in front of the home support has on the players.

'It’s amazing playing at Kingsmeadow,' he concludes. 'The ground has a brilliant atmosphere, and when the crowd is loud, you really feel it. It gives you that extra burst of energy, especially in big moments. It’s always special playing here.

'Seeing young kids in the stands cheering for us gives you even more motivation. You want to entertain them and give them something to shout about.

'Moments like that make playing football even more special. It also reminds you why you started playing in the first place and why you work so hard every day. Hopefully, we can put on a show and get the three points in the competition to end on a high before we take a break for Christmas.'

Watch the boys!

This Under-21s fixture will be available to stream live, free of charge, on the Chelsea Official App and website. To access the stream, either follow the Chelsea Under-21s vs Paris Saint-Germain match centre below or head to the homepage shortly before kick-off.