Chelsea Under-21s midfielder Harrison McMahon is looking forward to stepping out onto the Stamford Bridge pitch for the first time this season when we take on Aston Villa in a Premier League 2 clash this Friday at 7pm.
With the March international break behind us, our Under-21s have quickly returned to training, preparing for a big night at Stamford Bridge for our last home game of the regular season. Season ticket holders, members and all supporters under the age of 20 can claim one free ticket to the game against Aston Villa until midday on Thursday 3 April, after which general sale tickets will remain available priced at £4 each.
We currently sit fourth in a tight Premier League 2 table, with goal difference separating us from both Crystal Palace and Arsenal. Every point counts and the competition is only fuelling our ambition as we look to build on back-to-back wins, including our most recent 3-1 victory away at Norwich City. With just Aston Villa and Crystal Palace left to face before the title play-offs begin, the Blues are determined to make the most of this final stretch of the season.
Get your tickets for Chelsea Under-21s vs Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge
McMahon has become a regular feature in Filipe Coelho’s midfield, making 17 appearances for the Under-21s this season and captaining the side against Southampton at Kingsmeadow in January. Having joined Chelsea from West Ham United at the start of his Under-15s season, Harrison reflects on the significance of playing at Stamford Bridge and what the opportunity means for him.
Harrison, how are you feeling ahead of Friday's fixture against Aston Villa?
'I’m feeling great. Training has been intense leading up to this game and with the international break, we’ve had some extra time to focus on the smaller details of our work.
'I can speak on behalf of the whole team, we’re all looking forward to getting back on the pitch, being competitive and hopefully securing the three points.'
With this being the first time the Under-21s have played at Stamford Bridge this season, how excited are you for the occasion?
'It’s a great opportunity. When you're younger, playing at an iconic stadium like Stamford Bridge is something you always dream of.
'Playing at big stadiums has a huge impact on your development as a player. One of the things I’m most excited about is playing in front of a crowd and soaking in all the atmosphere.
'That’s something we need to learn, especially as we aim for full-time professional football. It’s about staying composed and not letting the occasion affect your performance. I like to stay chilled and focused. I know what I have to do and I’m ready to give everything for the team.'
If we reflect back, how have you found the season so far?
'This season has already had it all! Pre-season was strong, but then I had an injury that kept me out until after Christmas. However, that experience taught me resilience. As a footballer, not everything goes smoothly. There are always challenges along the way, but it’s about how you respond to them. I feel like I came back stronger and better. I look forward to coming in each day and preparing for the next game.
'Off the pitch, I’ve also developed a lot. I’ve been working on my leadership skills and learning what it takes to be a leader. It’s about setting the right example, doing the right things and giving everything, but also being vocal and supporting my team-mates.'
How has it been working alongside Filipe Coelho this season?
'Working with Filipe has been great. He’s very detailed in everything he does and expects a lot from us because he knows we’re capable of winning. Having that belief from your coach means everything.
'He also brings the team together and understands the importance of unity. The bond we have off the pitch is just as important as on it. That bond what drives us to fight for each other and want to win, not just for ourselves but for everyone in the squad.'
With Aston Villa being our last regular home fixture before the Premier League 2 play-offs, how will we ensure we finish on a high?
'Of course, we want to win, just like we do every game, but this one is extra special. It’s at Stamford Bridge, in front of our supporters, families and friends. That means a lot to us.
'There’s a real positive energy in the squad and, as I said, we’re looking forward to it. We’re ready to go. The team is ready to give everything we’ve got.
'Also, we want to maintain our momentum as we enter the final stretch of the season. It’s an exciting time, but there will be tough moments along the way. Big matches are coming up, whether in the league or in the Premier League Cup. Winning on Friday would be huge, as it would help us carry that high energy and momentum into the final stages of the season.'
Lastly, have you got a message to the supporters ahead of our home game?
'I’d like to encourage supporters to get their tickets if they can! It’s a big occasion at the stadium and it’s sure to be a great evening under the lights. Your support means the world to us and it never goes unnoticed. We have a talented squad and we’ll make sure to deliver a great performance for you.'
Still time to get your tickets!
Supporters can still get hold of tickets for our Stamford Bridge game against Aston Villa on Friday evening, with a 7pm kick-off. Members, season ticket holders (both for men's and women's teams) and under-20s are eligible for free tickets. General admission is priced at £4.
Alternatively, the Premier League 2 fixture will be shown for free on the official Chelsea website and app. You can access the live stream via the Chelsea Under-21s vs Aston Villa Match Centre below or on the homepage shortly before kick-off.