Chelsea's youth setup has seen mixed fortunes during the international break: 16-year-old winger Ryan Kavuma McQueen has been called up to train with the first team ahead of Saturday's away league clash against Nottingham Forest; while 17-year-old Brazilian left-back Danna, secured by the club for £8.25 million, is recovering from knee surgery with an uncertain return date.
McQueen's promotion comes on the back of sensational form. The Cobham academy graduate stole the show in England U17's 7-5 thriller win over Germany U17 last month, contributing 5 goal involvements (4 goals and 1 assist) in 50 minutes – netting a first-half hat-trick and sealing his performance with an exquisite outside-of-the-boot chip from a tight angle in the second half. His explosive displays have also seen him shine alongside 16-year-old midfielder Reggie Walsh (Chelsea U21 mainstay, joined the academy at 7) in the UEFA Youth League, and score a solo goal in this season's U21 league – earning him comparisons to "the next Christopher Nkunku" from British media. The first-team call-up, a reward for his pace and clinical finishing, brings him closer to his first professional contract.
Meanwhile, Chelsea's "future left-back" Danna is facing a setback. Full name Danna Alves Evangelista Pereira, the Brazilian prospect signed for Chelsea in March last year for an initial £8.25 million plus £3.3 million in add-ons, and was set to officially join the club when he turns 18 next year. The teenager, who has made 18 appearances for Corinthians U20 with 4 goals and 1 assist, underwent surgery after a serious knee injury. Chelsea's medical team is overseeing his rehabilitation, with the club monitoring progress anxiously amid fears the injury could disrupt his arrival.
