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Chelsea news: Maurizio Sarri transfer decision revealed live on Sky Sports
CHELSEA boss Maurizio Sarri blocked the departure of Ethan Ampadu in the summer, according to former Blues left-back Scott Minto.
Ethan Ampadu shows off his skills for Chelsea
Ampadu, who can play in defence and midfield, joined Chelsea from Exeter in July 2017 aged just 16.
The Wales international has made seven first-team appearances already for the Blues, all coming under Antonio Conte last season.
Ampadu started for Wales in their Nations League opener against the Republic of Ireland this evening.
And Sky Sports presenter Minto, who spent three years at Stamford Bridge in the 1990s, revealed how Sarri turned down a loan offer from Championship side Derby for him.
I know Derby tried to sign him on a season loan, I also know that Maurizio Sarri said no
“I know Derby tried to sign him on a season loan, I also know that Maurizio Sarri said no,” Minto said to studio guest Phil Babb.
“What do you think would be best for his development? To actually be training with the Chelsea players but not playing? Or getting first-team football elsewhere?”
Former Liverpool defended Babb reckons a loan would have been a good move for Ampadu.
“I think so,” he said in response to Minto.
“He’s 18 this month, so he’s got a hell of a career ahead of him.
“He’s a terrific talent, I’m looking forward to seeing him. He’s got all the ability, he’s an athlete.
“For Giggsy (Ryan Giggs, Wales manager) to throw him in for such an important competitive game shows the faith he has in him. So hopefully he justifies his selection.”
Ex-Wales and West Ham defender James Collins is also excited to see how Ampadu progresses.
“Very excited,” Collins said.
“Obviously I’m a Welsh fan now I’m not playing anymore. He’s been talked about for a long time and he’s obviously doing really well at Chelsea.
“I think we are going to see him in midfield tonight so it will be interesting to see how he does in there because I thought he was mainly a centre-back.
“He’s a tremendous talent and playing in this competition and against good opposition is only going to make him better.”
Ampadu played 67 minutes for Wales this evening, as Giggs' side beat Republic of Ireland 4-1.