Sjoeke Nusken became the newest member of our German contingent following her summer signing from Eintracht Frankfurt, and she has quickly made her mark at Chelsea with several impressive performances in the heart of the midfield.
The 22-year-old's first appearance in blue came on the opening weekend of the Women's Super League season against Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge – the venue for today's visit of Liverpool.
Yet her outstanding contribution, at least so far, was the hat-trick she scored against Brighton and Hove Albion at Kingsmeadow.
Nusken showcased her penalty-box instincts that October afternoon and also her selflessness in teeing up Aggie Beever-Jones for her first senior Chelsea goal in the Blues' 4-2 victory.
A versatile option – Nusken can play in midfield and defence – she reflected on that special day at Kingsmeadow where she announced herself to the Blues supporters in eye-catching fashion.
‘It was a really nice day,’ she said. ‘Everything went well. To score three goals and to make the assist for Aggie (Beever-Jones) was so nice. I don’t think I’ve ever scored a hat-trick before in my career – maybe in the Under-15s or something like that – but not in professional football.'
Since arriving at Chelsea, Nusken has demonstrated a maturity beyond her years. The often daunting switch from home comforts to unfamiliar territory hasn't phased the German international. She has hit the ground running.
‘I’ve settled in very well. I feel very comfortable in the team and I really like to play with them. Everything’s alright! I’m enjoying playing in the WSL and it’s a little bit more intense than I expected.
'It goes a little bit up and down so it’s different to German football, but I like it. That’s why I’m here.’
Having already graced the turf at Stamford Bridge once this season, Emma Hayes's side have back-to-back games at the stadium in the week ahead.
It starts with Liverpool this afternoon and Nusken is relishing stepping out in front of our fans once again.
'I’d never been there before I signed for Chelsea. The first time was the day I signed for the club and they showed me the stadium.
‘I’m really excited. I like to play at Stamford Bridge, we were there for the first game against Tottenham, and it was nice. The atmosphere was so cool, everybody was loud, so I liked playing there.
You can read the full interview with Sjoeke in the matchday programme on Saturday, so be sure to pick up your copy at Stamford Bridge.