After retiring from playing, Rosenior began working as an assistant coach with Brighton’s Under-23 team. His journey since has taken him to Derby, Hull City, Strasbourg and now Chelsea.

Before Rosenior takes the helm, McFarlane will oversee one more game, away to Fulham on Wednesday evening. Our Under-21s head coach has spent much of his coaching career in academy systems, and so he is thrilled to see a fellow Englishman who has been on a similar path step up at such a big club.

‘I’m sure all young English coaches with an academy background, regardless of who they support, will in some way be rooting for Liam,’ said McFarlane at his media conference today.

‘It is really inspirational for young academy coaches to see that, somebody getting a job of that profile. We all hope he does really well.’

After the Fulham game, McFarlane will resume his role as our Under-21s head coach. He is looking forward to linking up with Rosenior and continuing the positive work that has seen so many Academy youngsters step up to represent the Chelsea first team in recent years.

‘I’m sure it will be a really good connection,’ said McFarlane.

‘Cobham is a part of the history of this club. Even the other night [at Man City] we had three Academy graduates starting the game. It’s something the club is proud of. It’s in its DNA.

‘I know the ownership and the sporting directors believe in that and we will continue that. It’s our job to make Liam’s life difficult by really producing talented young players that can come through. I believe there are a lot on the other side of the road [in our Academy building] that can really push this year.’