New Chelsea signing Lesley Ugochukwu hopes to match Mikel's feats at Stamford Bridge

FRANCO-Nigerian teenage midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu who recently joined Chelsea during the summer transfer window from French Ligue One club Rennes has set himself the target of matching Mikel Obi's achievements at Stamford Bridge.

Ugochukwu, 19, who was born in France and holds dual nationality, signed a seven-year deal with the west London side for a fee said to be worth €27m. He plays as a defensive midfielder just like Mikel and is eager to emulate the former Super Eagles skipper who enjoyed a trophy-laden career at Chelsea, winning nine titles in 11 years at Stamford Bridge, scoring six times in 372 appearances.

Mikel left Chelsea in 2017 having won the Premier League twice, the FA Cup four times, the English League Cup twice, as well as the Champions League and the Europa League. Ugochukwu singles out Mikel as an early inspiration pointing to their shared position and heritage.

He added:  “Just look at all the trophies he has won and the legends that have passed through the club. They say I can become a great midfielder like him, if I put in the work and everything goes well. I want to be like him but it’s up to me to prove that I can have my place in the long term.

"I wanted to take this step. When a club of this stature comes in for you, it’s very difficult to refuse. I have great confidence in myself, in my qualities, in what I can do. I know that if I do things correctly, everything will go as planned.

"I have the trust of the club, of the staff, that’s what pushed me to say to myself. Go for it. If they came for you, it’s because you have the qualities.”

Ugochukwu was born in Rennes in north-western France. His uncle, Onyekachi Apam, represented the Super Eagles and although Ugochukwu has featured for the French U-21 team he said his Nigerian roots have helped him adjust to life in England. There are also some French players at Chelsea who have helped him settle.

"In the team, there are quite a few French people and I open up to everyone. I have parents of Nigerian origin so it’s easier speaking English, too. My parents live in Rennes. Of course, sometimes I would like to see them more often but that’s how life is. Mentally I was prepared.

“Signing for a club like Chelsea means something for them, too. In Nigeria, it is one of the big clubs that everyone supports. They were super happy," Ugochukwu added.