Keira Walsh believes Chelsea team-mate and fellow midfielder Wieke Kaptein has 'all the attributes to be a top, top player in the female game'.
There are few better placed to make that judgement than the England international. Not only has she proved herself as one of the best in her position in the women's game – and got the trophies to show for it - she has also shared a dressing room with Ballon d'Or winners Aitana Bonmatí and Alexia Putellas.
Kaptein is still in the early stages of her football journey. The 2024/25 campaign was her first in the Chelsea first-team squad, although she impressed and was an important figure as the Blues clinched a domestic Treble under Sonia Bompastor.
The 20-year-old represented her country at this summer's European Championship and, on returning to Chelsea, remains an impressive performer under Sonia Bompastor; it's why Kaptein was nominated for the Ballon d'Or award for the standout under-21 women's player – the Kopa Trophy – and was third in the vote.
She has also made an impression on Walsh, who believes the Netherlands international possesses a rare blend of football intelligence and physicality.
‘I really like playing with Wieke,' Walsh said ahead of our Champions League clash against St. Polten, which takes place this evening.
'She is really smart and has all the attributes to be a top, top player in the female game. I think her football intelligence is one of the best out of the players I’ve played with, in terms of finding space in the pockets.
'I think her ability to get up and down the pitch as well is incredible for her age. She has still got a lot to learn in the game, but she’s got all the attributes to be a top, top player – and she’s one of the players I’ve got the best relationship with on the pitch, too.’