Maresca hails youngsters on ‘special night’ for Chelsea

Enzo Maresca described Chelsea’s youngsters starring in a 5-1 trouncing of Ajax in the Champions League as a “special night” for the club.

Teenagers Marc Guiu, Estevao and Tyrique George all scored in a one-sided game at Stamford Bridge.

The hosts were 4-1 up at the interval after a first half in which there were five goals, three penalties and a sending-off.

After Ajax’s Kenneth Taylor was dismissed, Guiu and Moses Caicedo scored before the Dutch side pulled a goal back through Wout Weghorst’s penalty.

Enzo Fernandez and Estevao both netted penalties for Chelsea in response, and George added a fifth early in the second half.

“It’s a special night for the club and the young players,” head coach Maresca declared.

“It’s the strategy of the club. We have so many young players. We were the youngest side in the Premier League last year and this year is the same way.”

Estevao in particular continues to look a brilliant prospect and has already established himself as a fans’ favourite.

The Brazilian was the star of the show and has certainly caught the eye in the absence of the injured Cole Palmer.

“He’s a special player. I feel very lucky to be his manager,” said Maresca.

“The fans pay to see players like Cole and Estevao.”