The Blues are ready to face our next challenge as we turn our focus back to the Premier League 2 this Saturday afternoon, hosting West Bromwich Albion at Kingsmeadow with a 2.30pm kick-off.

The Under-21s head into this match in good form, following a 6-3 victory over Brentford in our opening Premier League Cup group-stage fixture. One player who featured in Filipe Coelho's team for that game was Harvey Vale, who had a lively match and played a key role with three assists.

After returning to Cobham following a successful loan spell with Bristol Rovers last season, Vale hopes to continue his development and apply the lessons he learned in League One to help the Under-21s maintain our recent form.

'I was really pleased with my personal performance,' said the 21-year-old, of the cup win over the Bees last time out. 'It was also great to see how the team played against Brentford, and it has given us even more confidence going into our next fixture against West Brom.

'Brentford was my first competitive match back this season, so it felt good to get back on the pitch. It was great to play the full 90 minutes, regain the feel for competitive matches and, to top it all off, get the win.

'As I said, I felt I played well and showed what I can do last weekend. I was active on the ball and did everything I could to help the team. Coming away with three assists was a bonus.'

Vale also reflected on his experience last season with Bristol Rovers, where he had the opportunity to play in a senior team and experience football at the next level. He is now drawing on those experiences, highlighting the benefits of his time there as he hopes to apply the lessons learned in his continued progress under Coelho’s guidance.

'After being on loan last season, it can feel a bit strange going from playing senior games every week to being back in development football. However, I need to focus on the positives and apply everything I learned from that season here.

'Playing in the men’s game for a season helped me grow physically. Now, being back in Premier League 2 action, my physicality is one of my biggest strengths, and I can use that to my advantage and to help the team.

'Looking back on my time at Bristol Rovers, it was my first full season in men’s football and it taught me some incredibly valuable lessons. I learned a lot and, while I still have much to learn, I can bring those lessons into this Under-21s squad, as many of these players aim to take that next step.'

Returning to Chelsea and back in Blue, Vale also talks about the importance of building relationships and the smooth transition back into the development squad.

As an attacking player, he understands the value of team chemistry and communication, both on and off the pitch, which he believes will only benefit the team’s overall performance.

'It helps that I already know the boys quite well, so transitioning from pre-season to now has been easier. Building that team bond is crucial. Filipe always emphasises the importance of team connection because it improves communication and link-up play.

'The same goes for the staff. They’ve been really supportive, which is only going to help me progress and improve my performances. Now, it’s about me doing everything right every day and giving my all, whether in training or on matchdays.

'Filipe and the coaching staff have been great with me. They understand my character and have gotten to know me on a personal level, which always helps with one-on-one coaching and discussions about where I want to go in my career.'

Looking ahead to this weekend’s fixture against West Brom, Vale expresses his ambitions for the match and his goals for the future as he continues to push his capabilities.

'My aim this weekend is to get on the scoresheet,' he added. 'Although it was great to get three assists, I feel a goal is coming!

'But the main objective is to secure the three points, win the match and continue our good form, while keeping the momentum going.'

It's not too late to secure your seats

Get your tickets here to secure a seat and support Chelsea Under-21s on our return to Premier League 2 action against West Bromwich Albion on Saturday 21 September, kicking off at 2.30pm at Kingsmeadow. Tickets are available for adults priced at £7, and at £5 for juniors or seniors.