We began our group stage campaign in the USA with a 2-0 victory over LAFC on Monday evening, Pedro Neto giving us a first-half lead with a brilliant strike before Enzo Fernandez put the result beyond doubt with 10 minutes remaining.

At times the Blues had to work hard for that winning start, though, even with us dominating possession and creating several dangerous chances.

Several members of the Blues squad have had no rest since our previous trip to the US in the summer of 2024 and a busy finish to the regular 2024/25 season, having spent the period between the UEFA Conference League final win over Real Betis and our departure for America on international duty.

However, Tosin believes the mentality and competitive spirit within this Chelsea side means that isn’t a problem given the silverware on offer at the Club World Cup.

‘Honestly it was a challenge, but we were well prepared and came into the game with the right attitude and we managed to get a great result,’ said the defender.

‘It was a competitive game, the intensity was there and you could definitely feel that.

‘Some players could be a bit tired but at the end of the day it’s tournament football. If you want to win you have to block that out of your mind and focus on each game.

‘It’s tournament football. We’re here to win. So you see that aggressive side and it showed last night.’

One player who Tosin highlighted as contributing to the aggression he feels was so vital to our performance and victory against LAFC was new signing Liam Delap.

The striker completed his move from Ipswich Town shortly before our departure for the USA and came off the bench to make his Chelsea debut at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, providing the cross for Fernandez’s goal.

‘He’s settled in very well,’ continued Tosin. ‘He’s a good young lad and we know how good he is, with his aggressive pressing.

‘He’s an aggressive striker, making sure he’s always there, setting the intensity, and I hope he scores plenty of goals for us.’

At the other end of the pitch, Tosin lined up at centre-back partnering Levi Colwill, ahead of goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. It is a trio which has become a familiar sight in Enzo Maresca’s team in recent months.

‘It’s a strong unit,’ added Tosin. ‘We’re getting used to playing with each other and we know each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

‘We’re always communicating and that makes each other’s jobs a lot easier, so we’re building a good relationship.’