Could Chelsea be the crusaders for an all-English XI?

Due to the abundance of talent that has come through the Chelsea academy and the players being linked to the Blues, Chelsea could field an all-English XI.

February 7th, 1999—a date significant in the diary of the Premier League, as it stands as the last time an all-English XI was fielded in the top division. John Gregory’s Aston Villa boosted the full assemble of homegrown players in a tie against Coventry City. Ironically, Villa lost 4-1 thanks to braces from Dutchman George Boateng and Australian John Aloisi.

In that same year, Chelsea attained its own piece of history, becoming the first club to name a starting team compiled completely of foreign acquisitions. Gianluca Vialli lead the Blues to a 2-1 victory over Southampton, both goals were netted by the Scandinavian forward, Tore Andre Flo. As the Premier League grew in status and stature, so did the number of sides looking abroad for a wider range of footballer than what was already on their doorstep. Chelsea was somewhat of a revolutionary in this department, as it continued to bring in top talent from across the world.

Fast forward to modern-day, and this influx has not slowed down. However, the importance of those handcrafted on British shores has never been greater as the England national set-up looks to compete with the elite on an international level. Over 20 years have passed since the last all-English XI was fielded in the Premier League. If Chelsea plays its cards correctly, the Blues could easily be the next club to achieve this fantastic feat.

The Blues could well be pioneers once again with Frank Lampard at the helm. He has entrusted his faith within the Blues’ excellent academy system, championed by Mason Mount, Tammy Abraham, Reece James and Fikayo Tomori; all earning caps for the Three Lions in the calendar year.

There is a strong possibility Lampard could be the first for over two decades to replicate what Villa managed, by once again fielding an all-English XI.

It is no secret that the Blues boss has wanted to rid of Kepa Arrizbalaga, looking instead at the likes of Jan Oblak or Andre Onana as his main goalkeeper. Yet, there has also been interest in a pair of gloves closer to home, Ben Foster from Watford and Burnley’s Nick Pope. Foster is now 37 and part of Hornets squad that suffered relegation. Chelsea is no strangers to signing experienced English ‘keepers from a ‘lesser side’. Take Rob Green, who joined in 2018 at 38, after being made a free-agent by Huddersfield. It may not be the desired choice for Chelsea fans, but it’s certainly an option being explored.

James at right back is an obvious pick, with Tomori alongside him. John Stones has emerged as a potential centreback alternative, as well after having somewhat lost his way at Manchester City. It is no secret that Lampard wants Ben Chilwell as his left back, confirming him as a main priority as he aims to sure up his defence. Certainly, a back four that Gareth Southgate could wield in the future.

In midfield, Lampard already has Ross Barkley and Ruben Loftus-Cheek at his disposal. To increase the academy production line, Declan Rice has risen as a hot target, the West Ham man starting out his career at Chelsea as a seven-year-old. Once again, this could well be a midfield trio to start in an England shirt together.

The attacking positions are much more simple as they are all on Lampard’s doorstep. Mount is likely to play no matter what, whilst Abraham has a fight on his hands against Timo Werner as the main striker, but he will definitely get minutes. The exception is Callum Hudson-Odoi, who has plenty of forwards to fight against for a primary role. Yet, there is still great expectation surrounding the talented 19-year-old. He has a great part to play in the rebuilding of the club.

This is entirely hypothetical for now, as none of the above signings mentioned have been confirmed. Further, it is highly unlikely they will all be guaranteed to feature together, considering the array of quality elsewhere. Yet, it is a fantasy that could well be accomplished and a reality that is well needed for the modern game in this country.