After securing the Under-18 Premier League South title, we caught up with Chelsea Under-18s goalkeeper Toby Bell, who spoke of his pride in helping the Academy lift its second piece of silverware this season.

It has been a stand-out campaign for the young Blues. The title was sealed in emphatic fashion last weekend, as a 5-0 victory over Ipswich Town at Cobham confirmed Chelsea as champions with two games to spare.

Bell has been part of the club’s Academy set-up since joining at Under-15s level and has progressed steadily through the ranks. After signing his scholarship in July 2025, the 17-year-old has continued his development at Cobham. Despite injury set-backs earlier in the season, he has returned strongly and featured in the decisive win that secured the title.

Attention now turns to this Saturday's away fixture against Birmingham City, with kick-off scheduled for midday. Supporters can watch the match live, free of charge, via the Official Chelsea App and website by accessing the match centre shortly before kick-off.

Ahead of that game, and following the league title celebrations, we sat down with Bell to learn more about his journey and life away from the pitch.

What do you think are your biggest strengths as a goalkeeper?

I think my biggest strengths are communication and organisation. I’m always talking to my defenders, encouraging the boys, and trying to be a leader on the pitch. That communication side of the game is probably one of my strongest attributes.

What areas have you been trying to develop this season?

I want to keep developing all aspects of my game, but especially the technical side. The coaching I’ve had recently has been very detail-focused, which has helped me improve a lot. I just want to keep progressing and take every opportunity to get better.

What’s your favourite thing about being a goalkeeper?

It’s the sense of togetherness. Goalkeepers are like a big family. We call it the 'goalkeepers’ union', and it genuinely feels like that. Everyone supports and encourages each other, and it’s always a positive environment. It feels like being part of a small, tight-knit group within the team.

Do you have a favourite type of match to play in?

I’d say knockout games, especially night matches. Night games have a different atmosphere. They feel bigger and more intense. Knockout matches are the biggest moments, like finals, and those are the games you really want to be involved in.

As a goalkeeper, do you feel pressure in those big moments?

Of course there’s pressure, but every player feels it. A striker feels pressure to score, just like I feel pressure to make saves. It’s part of the game. I don’t let it overwhelm me , I just focus on doing my job.

Who do you look up to in football?

I look up to Aaron Ramsdale. I’ve always admired him. His distribution is excellent, he’s very comfortable with the ball at his feet, and he makes big saves in important moments. That’s something I try to bring into my own game.

Do you have any role models outside of football?

My dad, definitely. I admire the way he carries himself. He’s always positive, always smiling and has a great impact on the people around him. That’s something I really look up to.

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

I like to relax and spend time with family and friends. I play golf quite a lot. I also watch cricket and occasionally play PlayStation, but not too often. Mostly, I just enjoy keeping things simple and unwinding.