Chelsea Under-19s prepare to take on Ajax in Group H of the UEFA Youth League this afternoon, here’s everything you need to know.
When and where
The Blues are in action at De Toekomst situated in the village of Duivendrecht, a stone’s throw from the Johan Cruyff Arena. Kick-off is 1pm UK time.
The form
Both the Under-18s and Under-23s continued their unbeaten starts to their respective league campaigns. Ed Brand’s side overcame Norwich City and sit second, level on points with first-placed Fulham while Andy Myers’ boys are top of the PL2 table after victory over Arsenal on Friday night.
Last time out in the UEFA Youth League
The Under-19s were on the end of a defeat in the most recent game in this competition. Lille notched in injury time of both halves to snatch the points from Chelsea.
From the dressing room
Defender Tariq Lamptey is hoping to get the Blues’ UEFA Youth League campaign rolling with a result over group leaders Ajax this afternoon (Wednesday).
‘We’ve had a good start in the league and we’re just looking to build on that momentum,’ said Lamptey. ‘It was a good win against Arsenal on Friday and the boys have been training well and everyone’s buying into what the coaches have to say and trying to implement it on the pitch so that when it comes to Ajax on Wednesday we can get the best result.
‘If we had lost the game and hadn’t played as well as we did or create as many chances as we did then I think we would be more disappointed with ourselves – but we created those chances and dominated the game, it was just those final bits that were missing. The chances we created gives us confidence.'
Myers’ team travel to first-placed Ajax who are yet to taste defeat in the competition. However the England Under-20 international believes Chelsea’s quality will shine through if we work hard enough.
‘We always try to have the best work ethic on the pitch because ultimately if we work harder than the other teams our quality will shine through – and I think we have more than enough talent in the group. It will be a tough game and Ajax are top of the group for a reason but we have enough to get the win and get the UEFA Youth League rolling.
How things stand in Group H
How to follow
Supporters can watch the tie live on BT Sport 2 at 1pm UK time. We will also have updates and team news via our official @Chelseafc twitter.
Please note: tickets for the game had to be purchased by Monday and there will be no tickets on the door.