Chelsea’s Ethan Ampadu made his competitive debut for Wales in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday night.
The 17-year-old started the 4-1 victory over the Republic of Ireland at the Cardiff City stadium, providing the assist for Aaron Ramsey for the Welsh side’s third goal of the evening.
Fans on Twitter were praising Ampadu for his mature display in central midfield:
Ethan Ampadu looked mature in midfield producing interceptions and cross-fields balls in his first competitive international game for Wales. An incredible prospect. #CFC
— Nizaar Kinsella (@NizaarKinsella) 6 September 2018
Should definitely be our Jorginho backup, perfect attributes to play the role
— . (@SuperGian_25) 6 September 2018
Such a great talent
— Agulue Cyprian (@AgulueTommec) 7 September 2018
@ChelseaFC don’t let this one go!!
— Conjoined Wins.? (@ConjoinedWins) 7 September 2018
Let’s hope he stays as he’d be in many other clubs’ first teams!
— Matt Levy (@MattLevy419) 7 September 2018
Sarri must be watching this golden generation
— LoudSilence_themahim (@mutwrilawrence) 7 September 2018
You can see why Antonio Conte really REALLY liked Ethan Ampadu. 17 years old but has a head on him like he’s been playing for years. Must. Not. Screw. This. Up. Chels. #CFC
— ?n’golo rayнan? (@TheBlooRay) 7 September 2018
Ampadu is the real deal. #CFC
— • (@l3ahpar) 6 September 2018
Base of the midfield is where his future lies surely? Wouldn’t be surprised as a CB also but he’s got it all to be a boss of a CDM
— chelsea blue (@Mus__Hassan) 6 September 2018
Ampadu deserves first team action under #Sarri at #CFC. His prominent reminds me of @sterling7 at 17years for #LFC this really boasted his confidence to play along with @LuisSuarez9 @liam_twomey @NizaarKinsella @sjstandardsport
— Mcdonner (@downerson) 7 September 2018
The teenager has yet to feature in a matchday squad for Chelsea this season under new manager Maurizio Sarri. However, he was afforded game time in the first team last campaign by previous head coach Antonio Conte.
Ampadu joined from Exeter City last summer and was given his Blues debut in the third round of the Carabao Cup in the 5-1 win against Nottingham Forest last September.
Despite his display in midfield for Wales, he has actually played more games at centre-back at club level, but his composure on the ball may see him get more game time further up the pitch.
