Advertisement

Chelsea confirm 'transfer' decision for possible Reece James replacement after double injury blow

Chelsea defender Reece James
-Credit: (Image: Jeff Dean/Getty Images)


Chelsea have confirmed that versatile defender Genesis Antwi has signed a professional contract with the club. It follows a group of youngsters who have already been rewarded with their work in the academy, including Jimmy-Jay Morgan and Josh-Kofi Acheampong.

Antwi, who joined as an Under-12, has risen through the ranks at Cobham and is able to operate on both flanks in defence. As a 17-year-old he is currently spending most of his time in the Under-18 side but did make two appearances for the Under-21s last year in Premier League 2.

The Swedish-born youth international helped the Blues win the Under-18 Premier League South last term as well as playing in the Under-17 Premier League Cup final success as well. He will now be aiming to follow the best of Cobham in making the step up to the development side and then on to first-team and senior training.

Acheampong is one of several who have been offered the chance to make an impressive on Enzo Maresca. Tyrique George and Kiano Dyer are others who have stood out over the past 12 months.

As a full-back, Antwi may well have more of an opportunity than most. Predominantly a right-sided player, Chelsea have suffered injury issues for both Reece James and Malo Gusto across the past two seasons.

James is yet to make an appearance under Maresca. He was banned for the first two Premier League games but also missed Conference League play-off matches against Servette due to yet another hamstring problem.

READ MORE: Cucurella makes surprise Chelsea transfer request as late summer bid rejected

READ MORE: Chelsea strongest Conference League XI

His absence has left Gusto - who deputised admirably for the club captain last season - to hold the fort. Axel Disasi has also been used in Europe so far but is not a natural fit for the role.

Gusto himself is currently an injury doubt after going off in the second half against Crystal Palace before the international break. He has also pulled out of duty with his country.

Antwi is still a long way off being called up to act as replacement, or even emergency cover, with Acheampong ahead of him in the running and even then still some way behind. However, in the long-term, Chelsea's decision to tie down Antwi to a first deal of this nature may well prove to be a masterstroke.