Ethan
Ampadu has vowed to impress Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri and break into the
first-team picture at Stamford Bridge.
Ampadu does not turn 18 until next week, but suggested he was ready for a
greater senior role at Chelsea by producing a masterful central midfield
performance in Wales' 4-1 Nations League victory over the Republic of
Ireland on Thursday.
He made seven appearances under Antonio Conte last season before fracturing
his ankle in March, but has yet to feature for new Blues boss Sarri.
"You could say there's been frustration on one hand, but at the same time
I'm getting experience training with the players," said Ampadu, who has
remained in west London and not been loaned out like so many Chelsea
youngsters.
"I'm just trying to improve to get into the team. This season's plans are
this season's plans and at the moment I've just to keep improving to try and
get in the team.
"I want to show the manager what I can do."
Ampadu's appearance against the Republic ended any lingering doubts over his
international future.
The Exeter-born midfielder or defender had previously played twice for
Wales, against France and Panama last autumn.
But those games were both friendlies and he could have switched
international allegiance with the option of playing for England, Ghana or
the Republic.
"There was talk [about my future], but I've always been thinking about
Wales," Ampadu said.
"As you could see here I really enjoy playing for Wales, the atmosphere, and
everything around it.
"I've always felt part of the set-up and the senior players and staff have
helped that.
"The older, more experienced players definitely help us settle in, and that
gives us more confidence to go out on the pitch and express ourselves."
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