This Friday marks an exciting milestone for our Under-18s' season, as we begin our journey in the most prestigious of academy competitions, entering at the third-round stage. In a repeat of last season’s draw, Chelsea will face Leicester City in a knockout match at the Foxes' training ground.

Looking ahead to the game, we spoke to Under-18s captain Ollie Harrison. The 17-year-old midfielder stepped straight into Hassan Sulaiman's squad when he joined Chelsea from Newcastle United in August 2023, and his determination and leadership has been clear ever since.

In his first season at the club, Harrison played a pivotal role in our Under-17 Premier League Cup-winning side and was instrumental in the squad which secured the Under-18 Premier League southern title. His progress and quality led to his appointment as Under-18s captain for the 2024/25 season.

Harrison understands the significance of the FA Youth Cup to Chelsea, a club with a rich history in the competition. The Blues have won the respected trophy nine times, the most recent victory coming in 2018. After training at Cobham ahead of the upcoming cup tie, he shared his insight into the team’s preparations and discussed what it would mean to lift the trophy.

Ollie, we have our first FA Youth Cup fixture on Friday. How are you and the rest of the squad feeling?

'We’re feeling good. Having a slight pause in fixtures before this game has been helpful, giving us time to reflect as individuals and as a team. We all know it’s a big game and we’re ready and excited for it. The key is channelling that excitement into our performance and leaving everything on the pitch, which I know we’ll do.

'The boys are all in the same mindset, pumped for the challenge. We understand the importance of this competition to the club. It’s about going out, staying focused and giving it our all. We’re determined to get the job done on Friday and enjoy the journey that follows.'

We’re familiar with Leicester, having faced them earlier this season and at this stage of the Youth Cup last year...

'Leicester are a strong side and the game will be a fight, but that’s what this competition is about. To win, you have to beat the best. It’s a tough opener, but we’re ready.

'Familiarity with their style does offer a slight advantage, but we can’t rely on it. Training has given us time to reflect on past performances and strengthen our connections as a team. Relationships are crucial in a game like this.

'We’re a close group, but during this journey we need to be even tighter. Strong bonds off the pitch translate to better performances on it. We’re united in our aim to fight and win together. No matter what happens, this game will be another lesson and will test us in many ways.'

Does your experience in this competition last year help you guide the players who are new to it?

'For sure, experience helps guide the younger boys. It’s important for the older players to take responsibility and lead. This is my last year in the competition, so I want to give it everything. For the first-timers, they need to do the same. It’s a team effort, not just about individual performances.

'As second-year scholars, we take the younger players under our wings. The FA Youth Cup feels different from other competitions, the intensity is unique. It’s highly competitive with clubs desperate to win. That extra edge makes it exciting. We need to control that energy into positive performances. It’s a buzz playing knockout football, knowing there’s so much at stake.'

You’ve captained the Under-18s since the start of the season. How have you found the responsibility?

'It’s an honour to represent Chelsea and being captain is even more special. I’m making the most of it and stepping up to lead the team. I have been loving being captain, as well as putting everything into training and games.

'Being a captain means being a good leader, looking out for everyone and ensuring the team is united and ready. We have a young squad this year and seeing the schoolboys step up has been great. They’ve made a real impact. It’s about helping them understand what Under-18s football is about and making them feel part of the team.'

'Winning this competition would be incredible, especially as captain. I'm excited to keep leading the team and ensuring we stay together. Our focus should be on taking it one game at a time and giving our best effort in each match.'

This cup fixture will be streamed live by Chelsea. Do you have a message for the supporters?

'I’d encourage everyone to tune in. It’s a chance to see the upcoming generation of players. We’ve got a strong squad this season. Watching and supporting us will give us that extra boost. So, if you’re free join the stream and support us, it means a lot to the team.'

Support the next generation

Supporters anywhere in the world can watch Chelsea Under-18s in action under the lights at 7pm on Friday 13 December as we kick off our FA Youth Cup campaign at Leicester. The match will be streamed live for free on the official Chelsea website and app, via our Leicester City vs Chelsea Under-18s Match Centre.