The duo could feature for our Under-18s later this morning as Ed Brand's boys make the short trip to Arsenal for a London derby league clash. The young Blues dropped points last time out and ceded top spot in the southern section so will be aiming to make a quick return to winning ways.

Before then, let's hear from Louis and Richard...

How did you both get into football and who were you football idols growing up?

Richard: I have basically been playing football my whole life. I started out playing Sunday league football from a very early age and then at the age of six I was scouted by Chelsea and here I am today. Specifically, though, I would say probably my older brother Michael, who now plays at Crystal Palace.

Louis: Pretty much the same for me. Football has been a huge part of my life. Growing up, I would say that Fernando Torres and Thierry Henry were who I looked up to because they scored lots of goals.

If you could have someone from the first team mentor you, who would it be and why?

Richard: I would love to be mentored by Reece James. He could definitely help me with my crossing ability and get me to a level where I am a constant threat if given the opportunity to deliver balls into the box.

Louis: For me it would definitely be Romelu Lukaku. He would improve my hold-up play as a player so much, especially considering that is one of the areas I have been trying to improve on the training ground.

Were you into any other sports when younger?

Richard: I am a real fan of basketball and American football. I haven't played either that much but I think I could play.

Louis: I played tennis at county level and I also like playing basketball like Richard. I loved swimming too as it gave me a chance to let loose.

Who were your inspirations growing up?

Richard: My mum and my grandad. They have both have pushed me and my game so I am forever grateful for them. They make me work harder so I thank them for supporting me.

Louis: My parents are great. They encourage me a lot and give me moral support which helps me.

Which footballing attributes are you most determined to improve?

Richard: I really want to improve my one-vs-one attacking. In today’s game full-backs need to be able to attack and I think if I can improve that, it will help my game tremendously.

Louis: Apart from hold-up play as I mentioned before, I would like to take my finishing to the next level. Left-foot finishing and first -time finishing, I just want to be a complete finisher.

And finally, a computer game question - NBA, Call of Duty or Fifa 22?

Richard: NBA. I am a big basketball fan so I prefer that game to the others.

Louis: NBA and Call of Duty, for sure!

Arsenal vs Chelsea in the Under-18 Premier League kicks off this lunchtime at 12 noon and there will be a match report on this website shortly after full-time.

Meanwhile, tickers are still available to watch our development squad in action against their counterparts from Manchester City at Kingsmeadow this coming Monday 24 January.