17-Year-Old Lewis Hall Gave The Most Honest And Emotional Interview Of The Season After Chelsea Debut
Lewis Hall gave a heartwarming interview after a sensational performance on his Chelsea debut against Chesterfield.
The 17-year-old lined up in central defence in Saturday's FA Cup third round tie and to say he ran the show is an understatement.
Hall started on the left of a three, despite being a midfielder by trade, and he registered an assist as the Blues ran out comfortable 5-1 winners.
Chelsea TV spoke to the youngster at full-time and it'll come as no surprise he was absolutely buzzing.
"It's a dream come true," he declared. It's something I've worked towards since a kid. To finally get the opportunity today... I've got to thank everyone. My family, the manager, the fans for making me feel so welcome."
He's the ninth-youngest player to ever play for Chelsea and is their youngest ever starter in an FA Cup game.
Hall only signed his scholarship forms in the summer and he's made seven appearances for the Under-18s this campaign.
In addition, he's featured in the FA Youth Cup, UEFA Youth League and Papa John’s Trophy.
"When I saw my name it was just instant shock," Hall continued.
"Nerve-wracking for a couple of hours. I just had to sit there for a bit and think 'wow, this is the day'.
"As soon as I stepped on to the pitch the fans were behind me and wanted me to do well. It gave me the motivation and confidence to do what I can do.
"I started off [the season] in the U18s and just worked my way up. I've finally achieved what my aim is at Chelsea. I'm lost for words really.
"I've achieved my aims already and gone beyond what I wanted to achieve [this season]. When I get home I'm going to have to take a couple of days to take it all in and think about what's next."
Chelsea raced to a 4-0 lead in the first half thanks to goals from Timo Werner, Callum Hudson-Odoi, Romelu Lukaku and Andreas Christensen.
Hakim Ziyech grabbed a fifth from the penalty spot before Akwasi Asante netted a consolation ten minutes from time.
Hall is naturally left-footed and it could give him even more opportunities this season.
Starting left-back Ben Chilwell is out for the season with injury and it means Chelsea only have Marcos Alonso available to play that position.
It's been claimed the club are looking for short-term replacements and a loan move for Everton outcast Lucas Digne has been mooted.
Recalling Emerson Palmieri from his loan spell at Lyon is another option, but Hall could try to make that spot his own.
Daniel Marland