The 17-year-old has been wearing Chelsea colours since his Under-8s season, having come through the development centre at Cobham. Growing both on and off the pitch at his boyhood club, Runham has impressed throughout the age groups and is now one of the eight second-year scholars in Hassan Sulaiman's Under-18s squad.

The forward has reached many milestones at the club during that time, including signing his full-time scholarship before extending his contract on professional terms in July, which will keep him at Chelsea for at least another three years.

'It feels unbelievable,' Runham said. 'I’ve been at Chelsea for most of my life and the Academy means a lot to me. I’ve pushed myself to keep progressing at the club I love.

'It’s not just a personal journey for me, it’s huge for my family as well. They’ve always supported me, going to every home and away game, and they’ve been there every step of the way. I’m really grateful for that.

'Growing up around Chelsea has been a big part of my life. I’m determined to keep pushing toward making it to the senior team, that’s always been the goal.

'I think Chelsea is the best place to be for any young player. The way the staff treat you, the way the coaches develop you as both a player and a person, it’s second to none. I’ve been very lucky to have that kind of support and guidance.

'If my eight-year-old self could see me now, I think I’d tell him to keep pushing, keep believing and keep working hard, because anything’s possible. It’s all about the future now and I’m ready to take that next step.'

The 2023/24 season was filled with success for Runham, as he was part of the teams which won the Under-17 Premier League Cup and the Under-18 Premier League southern title.

'Nothing beats that winning feeling,' he continued. 'When we won the title last season, it was huge. We worked so hard and to get that outcome was everything.

'I remember when I was younger, watching FA Youth Cup games, seeing players like Dominic Solanke coming through the Academy. I’d look up to those players and think: 'That’s where I want to be'. Winning these trophies feels like I’m following in their footsteps.

'It’s not just about what we’ve done, it’s about what’s next. I want to keep winning, keep pushing for more. Having these winning experiences behind me gives me even more determination.'

Besides being grateful to his boyhood club, which has given him the opportunity to progress and develop, he values another close circle in his life, as he believes they are the driving force behind his ambition.

Runham explained: 'Family means everything to me. I’m a big family person and they’ve always been there for me every step of the way. From the moment I started playing football they supported me, driving me to training four times a week, never missing a game.

'I wouldn’t be where I am now without them. Wanting to be the best isn’t just about me, it’s about making them proud and giving back to them for everything they’ve done.

'Each game, I want to give my all, because I know they’re in the stands watching. I hope one day I can make both my dream and theirs come true.'

Chelsea Under-18s return to action on Saturday morning away to Southampton, aiming to bounce back from a narrow 2-1 defeat to Reading. The team is eager to regain the winning form we showed before the October international break, when we recorded three victories in a row over Aston Villa, West Ham United and Newcastle United.

Runham said: 'The season hasn’t been the greatest for the boys. We’ve had some difficult results and it’s been a struggle at times, but I think we’re coming together now and the team is starting to gel more. We’re learning from the tough moments and I’m confident we can turn things around. We’ve got a young squad with a lot of talent, so it’s about building that chemistry and getting results. I’m optimistic we’ll finish strong.

'For me, I really want to get more goals and assists. That’s a big focus. I feel like I can offer a lot to the team and I want to be one of the players who makes a difference on the pitch. I’ve had some chances this season, but I know I can do more.

'Southampton’s going to be a tough game, but I’m determined to step up and deliver. I’ve been putting in the extra work after training to improve my finishing and overall game, so I’m hoping to show that on the pitch.'

Watch the young Blues in action

Supporters worldwide can watch the Under-18 Premier League match against Southampton, taking place at the Saints' Staplewood training ground, live on Saturday 26 October at 11am. The game will be available for free on our official Chelsea app and website, through the Southampton Under-18s vs Chelsea Under-18s Match Centre.