How England hopeful Acheampong is giving Chelsea a big decision to make

Josh Acheampong’s recent run of starts has made him an increasingly important option for Chelsea and strengthened his case for a future England senior call-up. His progress also leaves the club with a decision: whether to give the 20-year-old a lasting role or risk renewed uncertainty over his future amid competition for places.

He has started six of Chelsea’s past nine matches and played 581 minutes under Xabi Alonso, operating flexibly in a back three. Chelsea have conceded once since the international break, though Alonso has credited wider defensive improvements, including the return of Moises Caicedo. Acheampong’s contract runs to 2029, but he has previously come close to leaving, and Chelsea have pursued other young defenders with similar qualities.