Goalkeeper Zecira Musovic has been in fine form for the Blues when called upon this season, keeping four clean sheets in nine appearances in all competitions, including starting all four of our matches so far this year.

That form has been rewarded with a new contract, which Musovic signed this week to commit her future to Chelsea until at least 2025.

Upon signing that contract, the Swedish international explained that joining the Blues in January 2021 remains one of her best decisions, but has now offered some advice to the next generation of footballers just starting out on their journey, to help them also make the right choice.

When considering what she would tell someone considering joining a football team for the first time and giving the game a try, her advice is unequivocal, seeing the benefit of playing for everyone, regardless of ability.

‘I would say try it,’ she said. ‘If it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work, but try it because you will play a great sport that you will hopefully fall in love with.

‘You will meet new friends, you will learn how to collaborate in a team, and you will be active instead of sitting with your phone!’

That fits in with the more general advice she would offer to any young person who is hoping to become a successful footballer.

‘I would say be curious, ask questions and don’t be afraid to fail,’ added the 26-year-old. ‘Failure is never a failure, it’s a learning opportunity that you will use later in your career.’

That theme of not allowing fear to stop you being yourself is one she believes should extend to all aspects of life, believing it is important to acknowledge everyone is different to break down barriers and benefit us all.

‘I would like to change the mindset of people being into themselves, and to be more open about how we can work together. When we work together and acknowledge our strengths, we could create such an amazing world.’

The goalkeeper gives fashion as an example, explaining the most important thing is embrace your own identity, rather than try to copy someone else, even if it is someone as stylish as her Chelsea team-mate Kadeisha Buchanan.

‘I wouldn’t change anyone’s fashion, but I would highlight everyone’s fashion so they can own their own sense of style and be themselves fully,’ said Musovic.

‘For example, I wouldn’t be able to rock Kadeisha’s style as much as she can do it! Everyone has their own thing, which is amazing.’

It is advice that has served Musovic well, judging by her continuing development at Chelsea, and will no doubt continue to do so over the length of her new contract and beyond, starting with the Blues’ next Women’s Super League fixture against West Ham United on Thursday evening.