For some time now at Chelsea, many people have rated Josh Acheampong as someone who could one day be a mainstay in the Chelsea side and possibly be a club captain one day.
Last season was Acheampong's most prominent season, making 17 Premier League appearances, and with already five to his name this campaign, he looks likely to overtake that number, and his performance against Bournemouth yesterday possibly solidified his place in the team for the upcoming run.
Ahead of the game against the Cherries, Xabi Alonso was asked about Acheampong's involvement to start the season and whether he was tempted to "throw him into the lineup."
"He has played already a few games and he is ready for sure to play. I saw that he did well with the U21s. He didn't play the last game against Ireland but he has done well and for sure he is taking a step forward."
"He is playing more mature, more aggressive, knowing what it takes to compete in the Premier League. For him, being that young, he has great potential and great qualities. He has played and he will play again."
In yesterday's lineup, Acheampong played as a right centre back and seems to be fighting for his place with Wesley Fofana, with the Frenchman playing inconsistently. If the 20-year-old can have a couple of good performances, then he could earn a place in Xabi Alonso's starting 11.
Looking at his numbers yesterday, Acheampong had 73 touches, predominantly in the right wing back/full back position, pushing further forward than his starting centre-back position. Making 42 of his 51 passes, as well as covering 10.3 kilometres.
But what stood out yesterday, alongside his impressive passing numbers, was the number of linebreaking passes the youngster made. Acheampong tallied 15 of them and was unlucky not to register a created chance, but as ever, his defensive numbers were of a high standard, making four tackles as well as four clearances.
Everyone knows what Acheampong can do, and with Alonso's backing of him, he could become a key player in Chelsea's rise up the Premier League table, and it might not be too long before Thomas Tuchel selects him in an England squad.
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