Chelsea's youth team were comfortable 3-1 winners this past weekend in the third round of the FA Youth Cup against Bradford City and seeing as this was our young Blues' first game back after a long lay-off, Brand was more than satisfied with his team’s performance.

‘I am pleased with the result as cup competitions always have the capacity for shocks and upsets,' he said, 'but our objective was always to take care of the opposition in front of us and make it through to the next round.

‘We were in a better position physically to play the match before Christmas, but these things happen and considering that it was our first game back we dealt with our opponents well as they proved to be tricky at points.’

He added that: ‘We started well and that allowed us to get ahead and give ourselves a cushion as well as other opportunities to extend the lead. However, I was more impressed with how some players who played their first game at Kingsmeadow, handled the occasion.’

‘Bradford are a good team and we had to make sure the boys were prepared for quality that they clearly have.’

One unfortunate moment in the game concerned centre-back Travis Akomeah, who had to be stretchered off following a serious injury to his leg. Brand offered words of encouragement to the player who recently signed his first professional contract with the club.

‘We really hope the injury is not as bad as first feared, nevertheless, he knows that he is in the best hands and that all our thoughts are with him. We wish him a speedy recovery not just from a playing point of view but also for the fact that he is a leader within the dressing room and his presence is important for us.’

Brand was able however, to hand a youth team debut to Leo Cardoso on Saturday. The young attacker who has battled injuries this season was rewarded for his progress in the Academy.

‘It is exciting when you can give someone their debut and Leo is no exception as he has worked hard and impressed all of us. I hope he kicks on and continues to show why we have faith in him.’

Our young Blues will take on Cambridge United in the next round of the competition away from home. That game will take place at the Abbey Stadium on Thursday 19 January at 7pm.