We love Carney Chukwuemeka, both as a player as a person. He seems a great guy, and when injuries haven’t prevented him, he’s really impressed in Blue too.
He was the only player to play the full game of our first friendly of preseason, and while we’re sure he won’t do the same tonight against Celtic, he will pick up more important minutes as he looks to build up his strength and fitness ahead of a crucial season.
What’s mad is that that’s the first time the 20 year old has played 90 minutes since the friendlies last summer, as he points out in an interview with Chelsea’s official website.
“It’s the first time I’ve played 90 minutes since last summer. I’m pleased with that and getting those minutes under my belt early gives me something to build on in the games ahead.
“I pushed myself hard. I had multiple training camps to ensure I returned fit and strong. That I think showed against Wrexham. I still felt it a little toward the end of the game, but the work I’d done meant I was in shape to play the full 90.”
His use on the right of the formation was also a change for him, given his history:
“I’m more used to being on the left side but it is good play in different areas of the pitch. We’ve worked on the new shape in the first couple of weeks so it will take some time to adapt to it all, but the coach saw the ideas on the pitch and we worked well together.”
Big games ahead for midfielder battling for minutes
Tonight and the next few friendlies are huge for Carney. He’s got to show the new manager what he can do, prove he can play the style of football Enzo Maresca wants, and fight off a hell of a lot of competition for minutes.
