Maresca: Walsh makes everything simple, but he is still young and has a lot to learn

May 2 According to the BBC, Maresca and Nicholas Jackson talked about the team's 16-year-old young player Reggie Walsh in an interview.

It is reported that Chelsea performed well in the UEFA League match this season, not only swept almost all opponents, but also used this event to train a group of young players. In the first leg of the semi-finals on Thursday, the Blues easily defeated Yulgaden 4-1 and had one foot in the final. And this time, 16-year-old Reggie Walsh made his debut on the international stage. Although Walsh is not yet 17 years old and cannot sign a professional contract, he has become the third youngest player in Chelsea history, second only to midfielder Ian Hamilton and goalkeeper Kingsley Huifen who debuted in 1967. Walsh officially stepped onto the court six months and eleven days after his 16th birthday.

When asked by BBC Sports why he chose to let Walsh play, Maresca said: "He is very young, but in the way we want to play, the style, he is perfect. But he is still young, he needs to learn, work hard, and grow. But we are very happy that they told me that we promoted eight rookies from the youth camp this season, and I think it's a good thing."

Walsh is a skilled midfielder who mainly played for the U18 team this season, scoring four goals and giving two assists in 15 games, and also has two appearances with the U21 team. He joined Chelsea at the age of seven and gradually promoted at Cobham base to grow in West London. He has also represented youth teams at all levels in England, from U15 to U17.

Maresca was photographed whispering in his ear when Walsh was preparing to play, and later revealed what he said to the young player, saying, "Enjoy this moment and play happily, just like training with us every day. He is excellent because he makes everything simple."

Striker Nicholas Jackson, who scored twice in the second half, also praised Walsh on TNT Sports: "He is a very good player, top level, he will definitely have a bright future. I am very happy that he can make his debut, and I hope he has more opportunities, and I am very happy for him."