Mauricio Pochettino praised Levi Colwill, stating that he has the potential to become one of the best centre-backs in England. The young defender showcased his skills in Chelsea's 4-3 victory over Brighton in the Premier League Summer Series. Christopher Nkunku, Mykhailo Mudryk, Conor Gallagher, and Nicolas Jackson were the goal scorers in this promising triumph for Pochettino's team in Philadelphia.
Colwill did not play in Chelsea's previous game during their US tour, which they won 5-0 against Wrexham. However, he seized the opportunity to play against the club he was on loan with last season.
"We don't need to convey any message," replied Pochettino firmly when questioned if selecting the winner of the U21 Euros indicated that Brighton cannot loan him again this season.
"He is our player and will continue to be a part of our team.
I am pleased with his performance today, which exceeded my expectations considering this is his first game with us following the season in Brighton.
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Chelsea youngster Levi Colwill impressed in the Premier League Summer Series win over Brighton
"But I think he can be one of the greatest centre-backs in England."
Brighton seized the lead in the match as Danny Welbeck expertly converted from a close distance following a corner, facilitated by Kaoru Mitoma. Kepa Arrizabalaga displayed sharp reflexes to thwart the former English international from scoring again shortly after.
Nkunku swiftly equalized for Chelsea as he capitalized on a deflection from Ian Maatsen's shot, securing his second goal of the tour. However, Kepa remained busy towards the end of the first half, as Brighton mounted a counterattack, creating opportunities for Solly March, Welbeck, and Mitoma.
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In the 4-3 victory against Brighton, Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson displayed his skill by scoring one goal and assisting in two others. The game took a turn when Brighton's Jan Paul van Hecke was dismissed after an hour due to a second yellow card for a harsh tackle on Cesare Casadei. This allowed Chelsea to take advantage, as Mudryk beautifully executed a play with Nicolas Jackson, who then set up Gallagher for Chelsea's third goal.
Jackson capitalized on Marc Cucurella's blocked pass to score a goal of his own. Brighton's newcomer, Joao Pedro, converted a penalty in the final minutes, and Denis Undav's assist set the stage for an intense finish. Nonetheless, Chelsea secured a victorious beginning to the Premier League Summer Series.
Premier League Summer Series fixtures still to play
Sunday July 23Fulham vs Brentford, kick-off 9pm BST (Lincoln Financial Field; Philadelphia, PA)
Monday July 24
Newcastle United vs Aston Villa, kick-off 12am BST (Lincoln Financial Field; Philadelphia, PA)
Wednesday July 26
Brentford vs Brighton, kick-off 10.30pm BST (Mercedes-Benz Stadium; Atlanta, GA)
Thursday July 27
Fulham vs Aston Villa, kick-off 12am BST (Exploria Stadium; Orlando, FL)
Newcastle United vs Chelsea, kick-off 1.15am BST (Mercedes-Benz Stadium; Atlanta, GA)
Saturday July 29
Brighton vs Newcastle United, kick-off 12.30am BST (Red Bull Arena; Harrison, New Jersey)
Sunday July 30
Aston Villa vs Brentford, kick-off 5pm BST (FedExField; Landover, Maryland)
Chelsea vs Fulham, kick-off 7.45pm BST (FedExField; Landover, Maryland)
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