'I remember it all': 20-year-old Cobham graduate recalls moving story after signing fresh Chelsea deal

Chelsea academy graduate  Alfie Gilchrist has signed a fresh contract after starting all Chelsea's last three FA Cup games, including the big ones against Aston Villa and Leeds United. He has penned a two year deal that extends his stay at the club till 2026 with a further two years.

This is the second time the 20-year-old is signing a deal after his first senior contract last September. Former Chelsea captain John Terry has tipped him to have a glittering career at the club and Gilchrist says it's a dream come true for him because every member of his family is Chelsea fan. 

He told the club's official website after agreeing the deal:“My grandad and my dad used to have season tickets. They used to go all the time, and my aunty used to go with them as well sometimes. So I obviously support Chelsea as well.

“I remember watching the Champions League final, I remember it all– the first time we won it – in my uncle’s living room. That was a good memory.

“Actually, my dad had a Football Manager game, or whatever it was called back then, and before I was even born, he made a player called ‘Alfie Gilchrist’, who played for Chelsea. He had chosen the name and everything, and he played with that character – as me – at Chelsea. So it’s crazy how it’s come to life."

The boyhood Chelsea fan can play as a right-back but has played as a centre-back at the youth level. He made his first Premier League debut against Crystal Palace last December and in the three minutes he was on the field, he helped the team to three points and showed the kind of commitment and determination that has made many successful at Chelsea. 

Chelsea will hope Gilchrist's contract is the start of a positive week with a game against Manchester United up next at Stamford Bridge.