The special guests and their families were invited into the training ground for an exclusive visit courtesy of Chelsea Foundation.

Their day began with question and answer sessions with Chelsea legend Carlo Cudicini and head of nutrition at the club, Nessan Costello, who gave guests an insightful look into the importance of a healthy diet in the players' performance.

It was then time to see that performance in action as the guests made their way out onto the training pitch for a special viewing of their heroes in the flesh.

As someone who plays in the position himself, Ryan Bishop took a keen observation of the Chelsea left-backs on show. He said: 'I've loved watching Ben Chilwell, Marc Cucurella and Lewis Hall but also got to meet the best left-back ever – Ashley Cole. It’s been an amazing day to be able to take a day out of hospital to come and watch Chelsea train.’

After training, the players and first-team staff then made their way over to the special guests to meet them and sign memorabilia.

Alfie Stewart said: ‘A truly crazy and surreal experience, I’m speechless. I’ve travelled down from the Midlands and was due to come last year, but had to cancel because I wasn’t well enough, but it was well worth the wait. With my condition, I have to take the good days when they come and this is certainly one of them.’

Betsie-Rose Powley took the chance to get the players and staff to sign her own ‘Powley 10’ Chelsea shirt. She said: ‘It’s a special day just for me and I’ve been looking forward to it so much. I can’t believe it.’

Amelia Carlisle, who was joined by her Chelsea-supporting brother Oscar and sister Mya added: ‘It’s fantastic to be able to come here and enjoy such a great day with my brother, sister and family.’

Imogen Would, who was celebrating her 10th birthday, claimed: ‘This is the best birthday present ever.’

Theo Eades, said: ‘I support Chelsea because of my two brothers and I’m really glad I do because today has been the best day ever.’

Ben Sporle, J-Jay Finlay, Lewie Cox and Lewan Richards were all equally in awe of the event. J-Jay Finlay said: ‘I think it’s fantastic to be able to take part in this, it’s been a brilliant day with a real community spirit.’

Jacob Harper, Charlie Hewson and Rio Woolf, who all play for the Chelsea Foundation junior amputee team, were able to meet their idols. Rio said: ‘Meeting all of the players was an amazing experience I will never forget. I think it's great the Chelsea Foundation are able to put on these community days for people like myself and also the amputee team which has completely changed my life.’