Wales’ footballers have been in awe of 17-year-old sensation Ethan Ampadu over the past week.
Chelsea youngster Ampadu was handed his first taste of international by Chris Coleman in the friendlies against France and Panama last November and made his competitive bow in Wales’ Nations League opener against Republic of Ireland last week.
The 17-year-old – who turns 18 on Friday – produced a scintillating display in-front of the back four, earning rave reviews after helping Wales start their Nations League campaign with an emphatic 4-1 win over Martin O’Neill’s troops.
And Aston Villa defender Chester admits the impact Ampadu – who was somewhat unfortunate to concede a penalty in the 2-0 loss to Denmark – has already made on the international stage proves he’s destined for big things.
“The world’s his oyster as they say,” admitted Chester.
“When I was his age I was sat in digs.
“His ability is there for all to see and to be playing central midfield at international level at his age is some feat. If he carries on like he’s going he’s going to have a top career.
“He’s probably the best 17-year-old and when you see some of the lads coming through it’s an exciting time for Welsh football.
“It gives competition for older lads like myself. The standard in training is high, they want to learn and that’s beneficial for everyone.”
Ampadu has previously earned plaudits from Wales skipper Ashley Williams who described him as “something else” and insisted “the sky is the limit for him”.
He is known to have caused a stir some time ago, with several other Wales players and staff members blown away by his technique and football intelligence.