I’ve never been the oldest goalkeeper in a squad before. It’s a new experience for sure, but one I’m enjoying. I like the responsibility.

I feel that is coming naturally. I’m 27 years old – only Tos is the same age in the squad – so it’s important for me to help lead, and to offer guidance and support.

That isn’t just with the goalkeepers; it’s for the whole team. We have had some challenges over the last two seasons, which is normal during a rebuild, but we’ve celebrated some great moments and created memories for the supporters. That's what we want more of, you know?

It's why we were disappointed with the result against Flamengo. We conceded goals that we don't normally concede, and the result certainly wasn't what we wanted. But there is a chance to respond quickly in a tournament like this and we know what we must do on Tuesday: win and qualify for the next stage.

Playing against teams from different countries has been cool; it's part of why I have enjoyed the Club World Cup so far. It's a different feeling and experience, and it's good for the squad to have this time together, especially with some new players like Mike, Mamadou, Dario and Liam.

I won't pretend it's all easy, though. I've got an 18-month-old daughter back home, and my partner is pregnant with our second child. With the time difference here in the U.S, the nap schedules and training, it's not always easy to speak with them. But I try to find an hour to play and talk with them over the phone. That's important for me.

I'm close to the other goalkeepers in the squad, of course. As I mentioned, I'm the oldest, so I try to lead on different things. The other day, on our day off, I took the guys up to New York City and we spent the day together exploring the city, taking pictures, and getting food.

When the group is close like that, it helps you perform better. You feel supported. It's what I try to give the guys, too, because Filip is 23, Gaga is 21 and Mike is 19, and they have come over to England quite young. I have been here a long time – maybe that's why I prefer colder weather now! – so I can share my experiences.

I've gained those in many different ways. I had loans in the Football League early in my career, and they were so important in my development. I learned so much and they helped me go from a goalkeeper with potential to one ready to play in the Premier League.

Then you have to prove yourself again and again; it's the same for everyone in the squad. But I must say, I love this team and the changing room is great. We all get on with each other – and with the head coach and staff. They are all top.

I think we have improved through the season, and we have reached a point where we can push on and win bigger things. The Conference League was massive for us in that. Nottingham Forest away, too. They were two finals that we had to win, and did.

That was important for ourselves and the supporters. It showed everyone we can overcome pressure and handle difficult games.

As a group, we want to be on the bigger stages, such as here at the Club World Cup. It's why we will give everything to get through on Tuesday and for the rest of the tournament. We know what we have to do.

Chelsea's game against ES Tunis kicks off at 2am UK time on Wednesday. You can watch that and every other game at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 live for free by signing up with DAZN here.