Andriy Shevchenko believes Mykhailo Mudryk will prove to be a smart piece of business by Chelsea, with the former Blue feeling the Ukrainian forward is ‘the future’.

Mudryk made a January switch to Chelsea from Shakhtar Donetsk, signing a long-term contract with the Blues and impressing in his early appearances for Graham Potter’s side.

He’s had to be patient for a regular run in the side, with Shevchenko understanding why Potter has allowed Mudryk time to acclimatise to the Premier League, a new country and a new club.

While Shevchenko will hope Mudryk can make an impact for his country against England when the two sides meet at Wembley this afternoon, our former striker has stated he is keen to see the Ukrainian flourish at Stamford Bridge and will be monitoring his progress over the next few months and years.

‘I wish I had come to Chelsea at his age,’ said Shevchenko, who scored 22 goals across two seasons at Stamford Bridge.

‘What worked for me in Milan and London was immersing myself in the culture, studying the language so I could communicate with my team-mates.

‘That will help him acclimatise quicker which is important when you move to any country in the world. On the pitch, the club and the manager will provide him with everything he needs to raise his level.

‘Chelsea have bought a talented player when he is very young, for the future. He’s just starting his path in a massive football career. But his first step has been the right step, coming to Chelsea. He’s part of an ambitious project and he’s in good hands.

‘The decision to get him right now was down to how much the club believe in his talent. He’s on a very long contract and Chelsea are investing in their future.

‘The Premier League usually demands results right now, but let’s see how he does in these eight years. Let’s see what he can do in the long-term. The club must be patient with him and believe in his talent.’