The American signed from Chicago Fire last summer and first arrived at Cobham at the beginning of this year. He featured in several PL2 games before embarking on our pre-season tour of the US.

At FedEx Field in Maryland yesterday Slonina was selected to start by Mauricio Pochettino, who explained Kepa needed a rest after back-to-back games.

‘It’s a dream come true,’ Slonina beamed.

‘Ever since I signed I’ve been waiting for that moment to finally put the shirt on, get out on the field and play with my team-mates.

‘It’s great to wear the Chelsea shirt and show on the field I can play for a team with such a big culture. I’m really happy to make my debut and it’s really nice to finish the Premier League Series like this.’

During his hour or so on the pitch, Slonina didn’t have a great deal to do as we comfortably kept our west London neighbours Fulham at arm’s length.

He believes our good form this summer is testament to the squad taking on Pochettino’s ideas, and he hopes these positive performances and results against Premier League opposition will serve us well with the new campaign fast approaching.

‘It’s amazing working under the manager,’ said the 19-year-old.

‘The entire staff he has brought in and the energy and spirit he evokes into the team is very good. It gives us a lot of confidence going into the season.

‘It’s super good working with him and we’re starting to understand the tactics and how he wants us to play. We’re going to grow as a team and be better than last season, for sure.’