A future long term Chelsea captain? A future long term England captain? They are the goals this potential collosus of a central defender should be setting himself.
A big strong centre half who has progressed to being one of the best, if not the best, young English central defender in the country. Only recently out of the youth team, but unusally won the Young Player of the Year award in his first year ahead of older members of the youth team.
Was really given his chance when Ranieri arrived and took it with both hands. His tough tackling made him an instant cult hero with the Chelsea fans and the fact he was young and English meant he became very popular, very quickly.
Actually made his debut as long ago as 28/10/98 but only managed a couple of games under Vialli in the next few years. So has only had one full season in the first team but the potential could be huge. Being tipped as a future Chelsea captain, has already been England U21 captain and looks on course for full International honours before long.
Had well publicised off the pitch problems during the 2001/2002 season and it can only be hoped it's helped him grow in stature and put that behind him to become a stronger person. If he can do that he could be the best player to come out of Chelsea's youth system for decades!
Born: Barking, England - 07 Dec 1980 (23)
Height: 6 1