Our Under-18s' attention is now firmly on Tuesday’s trip to Spurs, which arrives with both teams heavily involved in the fight for first place in the Under-18 Premier League southern table. Supporters can watch the match live for free on the Chelsea Official App and website at 5pm.

One member of the squad who has played an important role for the Under-18s this season is Waite, who has captained the Blues on several occasions, demonstrating leadership and maturity within the team.

The defender has enjoyed an impressive campaign so far, featuring for the Under-18s across multiple competitions. He has also gained valuable experience at higher levels at Cobham, stepping up to feature with the Under-21s in the Premier League International Cup and making two appearances in the UEFA Youth League, European football’s Under-19s competition.

Waite first joined Chelsea through the club’s Development Centre during his Under-8s year and has steadily progressed through the Academy ranks, developing into a composed and dependable defender.

It has been a positive few months for the young Blue during the 2025/26 season. He will be hoping to maintain his strong form and help the team build towards the business end of the campaign, with a London derby against Spurs providing the perfect stage.

Get to know our defender a little better as he answers our questions below…

What are your biggest strengths as a player?

'I’d say my biggest strengths are my leadership skills and my mentality. I try to stay focused in every match and help my team-mates stay confident, even when things aren’t going our way. Being able to guide the team and set the standard on and off the pitch is something I really take pride in.'

What do you feel you’ve developed most in your game this season?

'This season, I’ve worked a lot on being more composed on the ball and improving my decision making. I’ve learned to read the game better, knowing when to play short passes, when to switch play and when to take a bit more responsibility, depending on the opposition and the situation in the match. I feel it’s made me a more complete defender.'

What’s your favourite thing about playing as a defender?

'I really enjoy the responsibility of leading the back line. As a defender, you have a clear impact on the team - you can organise, read the game and make crucial blocks. I like being someone my team-mates can rely on, both for guidance and for consistency in our defensive performance.'

What type of fixture do you enjoy the most?

'I love high-stakes matches. Knockout games or big derbies are exciting because the intensity is higher and every decision matters. Playing in those situations really pushes you to perform at your best and brings out the competitive side of me.'

Who do you look up to in football?

'There are a few players I really look up to. John Terry has been a huge influence, especially as someone who came through the Chelsea Academy and showed what it means to lead a team.

'Rio Ferdinand is another because of his calm authority and dominance on the field. And I can’t forget Cristiano Ronaldo. His mentality and commitment to improving every aspect of his game is something I try to incorporate into my own career.'

Who are your role models away from the pitch?

'My biggest role models are my mum and dad. They’ve taught me everything I know, helped me through challenges and always kept me grounded. Another important role model in my life is Jesus. My faith is very important to me and has guided me throughout my life.'

What do you like to do in your free time away from football?

'I like to keep things relaxing when I’m off the pitch. I play video games, spend time with friends and go out walking with my dog. It’s important for me to have those moments to recharge.'

Watch our London derby action!

Supporters around the world can tune in to our Under-18 Premier League fixture against Tottenham on Tuesday 17 March, with kick-off at 5pm at Hotspur Way. The match will be streamed live on the Chelsea Official App and website for free. To watch the stream, visit the homepage shortly before kick-off or follow in the Tottenham Hotspur vs Chelsea Under-18s Match Centre below.