The Blues were crowned Under-18 Premier League South title winners yesterday when we sealed a 2-1 victory against Southampton at the Staplewood Training Ground.

It has been an impressive season for Hassan Sulaiman’s squad, securing 17 wins out of the 23 league games we have played so far, losing just three.

Runham played a key role in the journey towards claiming the title with a game to spare, as the versatile midfielder scored the winner after coming on as a substitute.

The 17-year-old said: ‘I am buzzing to win the league. This season has been tough. It’s been a long journey but also an unbelievable experience.

‘I believe we played extremely well and have been strong throughout the last couple of months.

‘Being constant and making sure standards remain high was crucial throughout this journey. We are bold and resilient, which shows the strength of this Chelsea team. We proved that we deserved to win the title.’

Southampton started the game well yesterday and could have taken the lead, but Ato Ampah put the Blues ahead midway through the first half.

The hosts did pull one back but the introduction of Runham helped change the game as he scored what proved to be the title-deciding goal with nine minutes remaining.

Runham said: ‘Southampton were a tough team; they are a very good side, and we knew that. But the win shows the quality of our squad and the number of talented players we have involved.

‘Also, our coaches and the support staff around us played a massive role in the journey of getting this title – and we must not forget that.

‘Being a substitute, I knew I needed to make a difference. I was so determined and I knew what I had to do for the team.’

‘This season has stood out to me. As a player, I have really progressed and have given my all in every single game. It’s great to see my hard work pay off, especially with the title being the prize.’

Runham, who initially joined the Blues as an eight-year-old, has had a huge season. Not only has he been involved with the Under-21s and trained with the first team, in January he signed his first professional contract.

Runham said: ‘Being here for ten years, I have seen players firsthand go through the ranks, and I know that’s where I want to be.

‘Having some experience with the older lads is great as I’m able to physically see what I strive to become, and it pushes me further each day.

‘Being a part of the Under-17s Premier League Cup winning team was a great experience also. As I have lifted a trophy before, I have that hunger to do it again.’

The Under-18s have their last league fixture of the season against Arsenal on Saturday morning before taking on Manchester United in the battle for the Under-18 Premier League title on Tuesday evening at Stamford Bridge.

Kick off will be at 7pm and tickets will be £5 for adults and £3 for juniors and seniors. Click here for more information.

Runham said: ‘We need to focus on Arsenal for now. That’s still a huge game. We need to put everything into that to ensure we finish on a high.

‘Then we turn our focus on Manchester United. What a huge game. I already know we will be ready to give it our all on the big occasion.’