Under Rosenior’s management, Santos started all but two Ligue 1 fixtures for Strasbourg in 2024/25, scoring ten goals and laying on four more, coming second in their Player of the Year voting.

Having returned to Chelsea following the completion of his loan spell, Santos has featured in 25 games, starting nine. He came off the bench at half-time in our draw at Man City on Sunday, and McFarlane highlighted the 21-year-old’s impact in helping us improve in that game as proof of his quality.

‘He was exceptional the other night,’ said McFarlane. ‘He has played for Brazil. He is more than capable of playing in this side and in the Premier League.

‘There are not many tougher places to play than 1-0 down at the Etihad, so if he can play like he did in the second half, it’s clear he can play at this level.

‘The more he performs like that, I’m sure the more opportunities he will get. He’s been a pleasure to work with.’

Part of the reason Santos has found regular playing time hard to come by at Stamford Bridge is due to the outstanding form of Moises Caicedo.

The Ecuadorian was unavailable at the Etihad due to suspension, but he will be back when we take on Fulham at Craven Cottage tomorrow evening. McFarlane is confident Caicedo’s return will allow us to prosper in the middle of the park for the full 90 minutes and not just after the break, as was the case in the North-West.

‘He’s a top player, potentially the best in the world in his position. He will help us with that tomorrow,' McFarlane said.

‘We missed elements of his game in that first half [at Man City]. Andrey came on and was exceptional. He really gave us a foothold to control the game in and out of possession.

‘I’m hoping with Moises now not being suspended, we should be able to really control that midfield area.’