Todd Boehly could benefit from Mark Robinson's move to Burton Albion (Image: Getty)
Chelsea have announced the departure of their Under-21 coach, Mark Robinson, who has taken the top job at League One side Burton Albion. While the news comes as a significant blow to the Blues' development team, it could also provide several youngsters with the opportunity to prove their worth in the third tier next season.
Robinson led the Under-21s to consecutive top-four finishes in Premier League 2, and Chelsea gave him a classy send-off when announcing his move to Burton.
Part of the Londoners' statement read: "Everyone at Chelsea would like to thank Robbo for his work throughout his time at the club and we wish him well as he embarks on the next chapter in his coaching career."
Robinson had prior experience in charge of AFC Wimbledon, making him a valuable asset to Chelsea's youth ranks. But his departure from Stamford Bridge and return to senior management may just work in Todd Boehly's favour.
As is routinely the case, the Blues co-owner and his team of sporting directors will be tasked with finding loan destinations for a number of promising youngsters this summer. However, that time consuming process could be cut down considerably if Robinson fancies taking a selection of first-team hopefuls with him to Burton.
That way, Chelsea chiefs can guarantee that their prospects are in safe hands and given a fair crack at proving themselves in the senior game.
Mark Robinson has left Chelsea U21s to take charge of Burton Albion (Image: Getty)
Zak Sturge, Josh Acheampong, Diego Moreira and Deivid Washington were among those in the squad for Chelsea's final Premier League 2 game of the season - a 2-1 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on May 19.
Boehly and Chelsea's recruitment team could do with saving time this summer, given they are already tasked with moving a host of senior players on and bringing in a number of targets for new manager Enzo Maresca.
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Homegrown talents such as Conor Gallagher, Trevoh Chalobah and Armando Broja are believed to be on the chopping block as Chelsea look to stay on the right side of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR). Negotiations could become increasingly intense as the June 30 PSR deadline approaches.
Maresca, meanwhile, is reportedly keen to sign a new goalkeeper, a left-back and a striker. The former Leicester City manager's wishes could spell trouble for Djordje Petrovic and Robert Sanchez in goal, Marc Cucurella on the left side of defence, and forward Nicolas Jackson, whose spot in the starting XI looks set to be taken away.
