“Am expecting Pochettino should give him more chance” – John Terry begs Pochettino to give Chelsea star more playing time after stunning performance against Palace
John Terry hailed Alfie Gilchrist after the Chelsea youngster made his debut in his side’s 2-1 win against Crystal Palace on Wednesday (December 27).Gilchrist came on in the 90+2nd minute of the Blues’ hard-earned victory against Palace at Stamford Bridge. The English defender didn’t put a foot wrong, immediately getting himself involved in the action.
The 20-year-old made one vital interception as Chelsea saw their win out. He will hope that his appearance against the Eagles is the first of many.Gilchrist will also want to follow in the footsteps of Terry who became one of, if not, the greatest players in the club’s history. The Blues icon lavished praise on his former club’s debutant, writing on X:
“Delighted for Alfie. Congratulations mate.
Terry already knew all about the talent Gilchrist possesses as he works with Chelsea’s youth team. He named the defender as one to watch once they make the step up from the academy to the senior squad (via Blue_Footy):
“Alfie Gilchrist, he’s a really really good player. He’s got an unbelievable attitude. He’s been at the club since the age of eight… I’m expecting big things from Alf, expecting him to play hopefully a game or two as the season goes on.”
Gilchrist boasts similarities to Terry with his pitbull-like presence in defense. He made 29 appearances across competitions for Chelsea’s U21s last season, helping them keep seven clean sheets. He also captained the youth team occasionally.