Away from the transfer rumours and speculation, three Chelsea youngsters are preparing for a big European Championship semi-final against Germany.
England U21 v Germany U21
KO: 17:00 BST, 12:00 ET
Stadion Miejski Tychy, Tychy, Poland
While the transfer rumour mill continues to spin, actual football is taking centre stage on Tuesday. England U21 are squaring off with Germany in the semi-finals of the European U21 Championship. Chelsea are well represented with Nathaniel Chalobah, Lewis Baker and Tammy Abraham set to feature.
The trio have been instrumental so far. Baker and Chalobah have started and finished every game, helping England remain unbeaten through the group stages. Abraham, meanwhile, has started two out of the three games.
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Now, the youngsters face their sternest test yet as they come up against one of the sides favoured to go all the way. Boasting talent such as Max Meyer, the future of German football is certainly healthy.
England, though, will not be phased by their opponents supposed superiority. U21 boss, Aidy Boothroyd, has been talking about winning the tournament.
"We want to be known as teams that win tournaments, but we know we’ve got a very tough opponent and we have a great deal of respect for the German team and it will be a very difficult game for us as well.I hope that we can execute the game plan. If we can we will have a good chance. – via BBC Sport"
Chalobah was brought off during England’s last game against Poland before half-time. This was as a precaution and Boothroyd has not ruled the Chelsea man out of the game. As one of the more talented players in the squad, his presence will boost the young lions.
Baker is the only one of the trio to hit the back of the net, scoring the third goal against Poland. It may have been a penalty, but the midfielder will be hoping to materially contribute again this evening.
Unfortunately, the future of all three youngsters is in doubt. Chalobah and Abraham have been strongly linked with Stamford Bridge exits and they may view this as an opportunity to increase their profile.
Next: Bertrand Traore transfer: What does Chelsea expect from their youth?
It is sure to be a tight contest and with all the Chelsea interest we will definitely be watching. Join us on our Twitter account for match updates and general chat!