UCL: ‘I’m not old – Chelsea’s Tosin Adarabioyo dismisses concerns about his age

Chelsea defender, Tosin Adarabioyo has taken an exception to being called an old man at the club.

The defender pointed out that being the oldest player among the Blues’ very young setup doesn’t make him an old player.

Dismissing concerns about his age, the former Manchester City man insisted that being the oldest outfield player in Chelsea’s youthful squad does not worry him.

Adarabioyo became the first player aged 28 or over to feature under manager Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea team when he was introduced in the second half of the Blues’ 3-0 Premier League win against Nottingham Forest over the weekend.

The average age of Chelsea’s starting XI for that game was 23 years and 345 days.

“I wouldn’t call myself an old player at 28,” Tosin told a press conference ahead of Chelsea’s 5-1 thrashing of Ajax in the UEFA Champions League at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.

“I’m the eldest here but wouldn’t call myself an old player. It’s a young team. I feel my age. I feel 28 years of age.

“It’s a great age, and I’ve still got a long way to go in the game. 28 is a great age to start kicking on and doing great things.”

Asked whether he fears being replaced by younger talent, the defender said, “No, not at all. As long as you play at a high level and perform well, I don’t think it matters your age.

“For me it doesn’t matter what your age is, as long as you’re giving your all and playing at a high level.”

Tosin, who joined Chelsea from Fulham, has been praised for his composure and leadership within the squad, but that was not the case against Ajax on Wednesday night as he was hauled off at half-time following his error that resulted in the Dutch side’s only goal.