Lesley Ugochukwu might be the standout midfield player among Mauricio Pochettino’s many choices.

John Mikel Obi and Patrick Vieira are regarded by Lesley Ugochukwu as the two best Premier League players he watched as a teenager. After spending over £23.2 million to join Chelsea from Rennes in the summer, the 19-year-old midfielder has begun to feature at Stamford Bridge, starting many games off the bench since coming to London.

This season, Ugochukwu has made seven appearances for the Blues, sharing the field with record-signing English football players Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez. Ugochukwu provides the West London team with steel and composure in the midfield, despite the fact that the French U21 international generally only makes an appearance towards the end of the game. This is one of Pochettino’s favorite players.

He made his debut for the team in a 1-1 draw against Liverpool before starting in the League Cup victory against Wimbledon. Romeo Lavia’s injury, which has kept him out of action for some time, appears to be immensely benefiting the former Rennes player, based on his few minutes as a replacement. Three of the most dynamic and promising midfielders in the world, Enzo Fernandez, Caicedo, and Lavia, will compete with Ugochukwu for playing time, with Conor Gallagher also taking part.

Ugochukwu reached adulthood with Rennes, a French team, after progressing through the academy and making 60 first-team appearances. Including 35 games in a pivotal role during the previous season. Strong in central midfield, Ugochukwu can also play deeper in defense when called upon. He is strong in the air and skilled at both tackling and blocking the ball thanks to his savvy use of body language.

The Frenchman recently discussed his integration process in an interview with Chelsea’s official website, saying, “Everyone is kind to me.” There are a lot of French players, and I am close to them.” The French team! It was really helpful. “‘Axel, droit!’ That really helped if the ball goes in the right direction.”

“I want to play in the Premier League and be a member of this team. While growing up, I enjoyed watching John Mikel Obi in the Premier League. like myself, a midfielder. Moreover, I was informed by a few of my coaches that I play like Patrick Vieira. I have seen some of his clips, and he’s a really good player.”

Romeo Lavia is still recuperating from an injury, so Ugochukwu would be a welcome addition to the starting lineup. After the former Southampton player leaves the rehabilitation area, Pochettino will have a wealth of choices in the midfield. It could be challenging to decide on a starting lineup.