Chelsea’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest was extra special for Josh Acheampong after he scored the first goal of his senior career, with Estevao Willian one of those to praise him after the game.
Acheampong was named at centre-back for the second successive game following the multiple injury problems they have suffered in the position, however he only strengthened his grip on the role on a more regular basis.
Jason Cundy loved the Cobham graduate’s performance, and he capped off a brilliant defensive display with the goal which gave Chelsea the lead early in the second half.
Pedro Neto and Reece James would add goals in the second half to help put an end to Ange Postecoglou’s time in charge at Forest, and making it two wins out of two for the Blues in the league.
Photo by Michael Regan/Getty ImagesEstevao Willian and John Terry praise Josh Acheampong after scoring first Chelsea goal
James shared how impressed he was with Acheampong, however after the game plenty of people associated with Chelsea congratulated the defender on a huge individual moment.
Estevao Willian, Levi Colwill and current academy star Kiano Dyer were amongst those who took to Instagram to praise the youngster for his performance and goal.
Club legend John Terry, who has spent time working with the academy since retiring as a player, was also amongst those who praised Acheampong, alongside a number of his other teammates.
While a number of Chelsea defenders returned to the matchday squad for the trip to Forest, there should be plenty of confidence in the youngster that he could nail that spot down from now.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty ImagesMaresca shares Acheampong advice
Enzo Maresca, who watched the win against Forest from the stands due to a suspension, has protected Acheampong since he became a first team regular around a year ago.
However, it is becoming harder to ignore the youngster, and after Wesley Fofana missed out completely from the squad, this could be the moment he becomes a more permanent part of the manager’s thinking.
Maresca instructed Acheampong to keep working hard, with opportunities set to come his way in the coming weeks.
The next chance to feature could come in the Champions League, with Ajax the next visitors at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.