Midfielder Alex Matos and his Under-21s team-mates have been busy preparing for tonight's Premier League 2 clash with Fulham at Kingsmeadow, which Blues supporters can watch live on the official Chelsea app, website and YouTube channel.

The young Blues return to action tonight following our impressive 4-0 win over RSC Anderlecht in the Premier League International Cup at Kingsmeadow on Tuesday.

Filipe Coelho’s side worked hard from start to finish, with four different players finding the back of the net. Jimmy-Jay Morgan opened the scoring with a powerful header before setting up Tyrique George for a strike that found the bottom corner.

In the second period, we came out with the same energy and a composed low strike from substitute Zain Silcott-Duberry and a late rifled effort from fellow substitute Sam Rak-Sakyi sealed the win.


Matos, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Championship side Huddersfield Town, started against Anderlecht and has been a regular for our Under-21s this term. He is pleased with the progression he has made in recent outings.

‘I’ve been happy with my recent performances,’ Matos said. ‘Training has been going well and I feel we are making good progress. The team is in good spirits after a win that showed our capabilities, and we’re excited to get back on the pitch and hopefully do the same again.

‘We’ve been creating a closer connection lately, which has shown in our performances. I’m looking forward to seeing what else the team can achieve as we continue to learn and improve.’


Having returned to Cobham this summer after his successful stint in the Championship, Matos is drawing on that experience as he aims to help the Blues secure three points at Motspur Park.

‘My loan experience helped me a lot in understanding the game,’ the 20-year-old explained. ‘Not just on the pitch but off it as well – and the mentality needed to get results.

‘Being in the Championship was an unbelievable experience. I know what it’s like to compete with older players and handle the physical and mental challenges.

‘I’ve come back with a better understanding of my abilities. I hope I can apply what I’ve learned, help the younger players in the squad, and contribute to their development and the team’s.’

Matos has also enjoyed working under our Portuguese Under-21s head coach and is excited to grow further under his leadership. The midfielder highlights the strong relationship they’ve built since Coelho’s arrival in pre-season.

‘The transition from my loan spell back to Chelsea was smooth. Sometimes it can be tough, but it’s worked well for me. Filipe is a very good coach who’s taken the time to get to know me as a person and that really helps.

‘He believes in my ability and knows what I can bring to the team to help get positive results. I’ve felt comfortable showing what I can do on the pitch.’


Looking ahead to tonight's PL2 fixture against Fulham, Matos highlighted our west London neighbours will provided a stern challenge.

The Cottagers currently sit second in the league table with four wins from four games, but Matos says he and his team-mates are ready for the match.

‘Fulham is a tough side, we’re aware of that, but that makes the fixture even more exciting. We’re up for the challenge. We’ve been working extremely hard, and that’s reflected in our recent results.

‘There’s no reason why we shouldn’t be ready to take them on and give them a difficult time. The team is always up for a London derby.

‘I just want to keep doing what I’m doing; developing my skills and making a difference for the team.’

Watch our Under-21s in away action

Supporters worldwide can watch Chelsea Under-21s face Fulham at Motspur Park on Friday evening, with a 7pm kick-off.

The game will be streamed live for free on the Official Chelsea app, website, and YouTube channel. To access the stream, visit the Chelsea U21 vs Fulham U21 Match Centre.