Ben Chilwell sends message to Chelsea fans after playing his first game of the season. Enzo Maresca reacts

Ben Chilwell
Photo: Chris Lee – Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Chelsea outcast Ben Chilwell featured for Chelsea in the Carabao Cup meeting with Barrow. It was his first game for the club in more than five months.

Ben Chilwell was part of the Chelsea squad not wanted by Enzo Maresca, and had been banished from the first team.

However, Chilwell was given a route back into the first-team squad, after failing to find a club during the summer transfer window.

Ben Chilwell came on as a substitute in the game against Barrow, and was greeted with loud cheers from the stands.

Chilwell wore the captain’s armband during the second half of the game.

After the game, Chilwell posted a message to fans on social media: “Missed nights at the Bridge in front of you guys”.

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca was also delighted with the performance of Chilwell.

“[He was] very good,” the Italian said. “It was not easy for Chilly. He didn’t get any minutes this season but he has shown he is there, he is ready and working well.

“There is not any problem. If we have a chance, we will give him some more minutes in games.”

Ben Chilwell still has a contract at Stamford Bridge that will run until the summer of 2027.