It is clear that Chelsea has always had the financial capacity to pull off big signings if they set their minds to it, but history also tells us that it is a team with a youth academy; the most recent star and example for the youngsters is, without a doubt, Reece James.

The captain is unquestionably the role model for all the academy players seeking their place in the first team, such as Josh Acheampong, Reggie Walsh, Genesis Antwi, Ryan Kavuma-McQueen, and Jesse Derry.

The legendary Chelsea defender, Gary Cahill, was asked about the latter, Derry, since he is the one with the most hope placed in him and, unfortunately, when he was beginning to earn minutes in the starting team, suffered a dramatic head injury.

"Without a doubt, the club has trusted him and sees his potential, as he is already in the first team at his age. He suffered a serious injury, but he is doing things right. If I'm being honest, I haven't seen him much because I'm not at the training ground every week.

But he is another one who will be eager for the opportunity to build a career at a club like Chelsea. It's clear that the board sees something in him, and that is why he is included in the matchday squads," Cahill said.

Afterward, he was asked about the issue of academy players in the first team. "Fans love to see that. But at the same time, it is difficult because the players' level is higher than at some clubs, where the competition is not as fierce. It's natural. It is harder to get into Chelsea's squad because of the level of the players there and those they can sign.

But when someone rises to the occasion, it's fantastic to see. They have to prove their level to get into the first team. An example is Reece: he came out of the academy and is now an extraordinary player. It's a great story.

Hopefully, more players will come out of the academy; it has already been shown that if you are good enough, you can break through. I came through at Aston Villa, and I know that getting into Chelsea's first team is harder, but that's the level," he concluded.

It is clear that the path is anything but easy, and once you cross that whole path and manage to reach the first team, you must stay there and take care of injuries because the competition is fierce: if you are not there, there will be three or four wanting your spot. But the academy players must understand that it is possible; they have the best example starting on weekends, Reece James.

Roundtablesports is Free to join! You can post your own thoughts, comment on articles, and start conversations with our Roundtable Writers. 

Download the FREE Roundtable APP, and get even easier access to your favorite teams and news!