Hughes started his Chelsea journey at the age of eight and rose through the ranks at Cobham. He has become a regular for our Under-21s this season, starting 18 of a possible 20 matches during the regular Premier League 2 campaign.

He started our victory over Arsenal in last weekend's playoff quarter-final win over Arsenal and is hopeful the Blues can dispatch another north London opponent, Tottenham.

Congratulations, Brodi, on the victory over Arsenal. How are you feeling ahead of today's semi-final against Tottenham Hotspur?

'I’m feeling positive and looking forward to it. The team spirit is high after grabbing the result against Arsenal. Training this week has gone well and we’re making sure we are fully prepared so we can go out there and come away with another victory.

'Tottenham are a tough side; we know it will be a difficult game. The squad has done incredibly well this season, and we have gone from strength to strength. When we last played against Spurs, unfortunately, it was not the result we wanted but we are a different side now and we are so determined to get to that final.

'I’m looking forward to playing at the men’s stadium; it will be a surreal experience. I always prefer playing at a stadium as the atmosphere gives you a taste of what it is like to play in the men’s game, which will hopefully be my reality soon.'

What can you take from your performance against Arsenal?

'During the Arsenal game, I felt I was focused throughout the match. As soon as I stepped out onto the pitch for the warm-ups, I was in the zone and ready to give my all.

'At times, the game became intense with the tempo increasing but I remained composed and confident, which I felt showed throughout my performance.'

What do you draw from your previous experience to help you throughout these knock-out competitions?

'Firstly, I love knock-out competitions as they bring another aspect of competitiveness into your performance. Growing up in Chelsea Academy, I have experienced competitions from a young age, which has taught me how to manage the occasion and excitement.

'Managing pressures on and off the pitch is crucial during these big moments. Being able to contain those emotions allows your performance to continue to excel and not be affected by the feelings.'

Throughout this season, what have you been most pleased with? How will you use this to your advantage against Tottenham?

'I have been really pleased with this season so far. From a personal perspective, it has been successful and I have been happy with my consistent performances. However, there is always more that can be done – I am striving to be the best version of myself.

'After each game, I like to rewatch my performance back and assess what areas I need to work on for next time. Having the facilities at the Academy to do that is great, along with the help with the analysis and coaching staff.

'Looking back at my last performance, I have already identified areas that I can work on during this week ahead of the fixture. I’m feeling confident and ready to go.'

Another London derby awaits today, does it add something extra to the occasion?

'London derbies are always exciting fixtures – especially as a Chelsea fan! Having secured the away victory against Arsenal, it would be great to do it again against another London club.

'It would be a huge moment if we got the win on their home turf. Hopefully, we will get the job done.'

Being at Chelsea for 11 years, what would it mean to you and the squad if you progress into the PL2 final?

'Of course, I think about winning the Premier League 2 trophy but it’s important to focus on each game as it comes. Each day, everyone in the squad puts in a shift, and we give our all into each fixture.

'We want to deliver for each other. At the start of the season, we played as individuals, now we play as a team. Being dedicated throughout the season, particularly in training sessions, is a must. As when it comes to the game, you just want to see that hard work pay off with a victory.

'Being at the club for so long to get another trophy would be special – especially to share this experience with the rest of the squad.'