Romeo Lavia believes the Premier League could take a leaf out of the Club World Cup's book by introducing player introductions before every match. The FIFA tournament has gained attention for its unique idea, where players are individually introduced to the crowd before stepping onto the pitch rather than all coming out together as a team. This aspect of the US-based tournament has drawn some mockery with some players appearing uneasy during the showbiz-style walk-on. However, Chelsea midfielder Lavia is a fan of the concept and thinks it could be an interesting addition to the Premier League.
He said: "It's something special and new for us. It's a first for us. I enjoyed it. Why not bring it to the Premier League? I mean, it's a bit of a showbiz thing, isn't it? I quite like it. The only difference is if we did it in the Premier League, we might get a bit cold! Because once you're out there, you have to wait for maybe the other players. But apart from that, it was good. I guess we always learn new things from international tournaments and that's what makes it special."
While the Premier League already features a line-up before each game for TV cameras, the Club World Cup has taken it a step further by using graphics on big screens after each VAR decision and offside check. Despite criticism and low attendance at some matches, Lavia insists Chelsea have enjoyed the tournament so far.
Speaking from the training base, he said: "Even before arriving here, we understood how big this competition was. It's great to see. We've watched some of the other Club World Cup games on TV as well. We're happy to be here.
"They are all great games and at a good level. And I think every team has got different qualities because they're coming from a different environment. So it's nice to watch because you don't get to see all these teams often."
Lavia, who has been plagued by injury since his arrival at Chelsea, played for 45 minutes in Atlanta in their 2-0 win over Los Angeles FC before being subbed which was pre-arranged. He is set to start against Flamengo on Friday.
However, after a stop-start time at Chelsea, he believes he is finally ready for lift-off two years after joining the club in a £53million move from Southampton. And he believes the Club World Cup is good for building up team understanding. Lavia added: "It's what is needed for the club of this level, so it's all healthy.
"We all have great connections together. It's just about doing our best every day, and then the manager must decide who he wants to pick, but all the players are going to be ready.
"I feel very good, confident in my body and in what we can achieve as a team as well. I think that's what we are all working towards. I am not thinking too far ahead.
"It's just about taking each game as it comes and then doing everything possible to stay fit, and playing as many games as possible. I think the biggest ‘credit’ a footballer can have is to be available. It’s definitely something I’m aware of.
"The greatest credit a footballer can have is to be available, and that's definitely something I'm conscious of. So I do everything possible to stay fit. Honestly, all the injuries I have had before, I just want to put them behind me and look forward to the future feeling good."