How Chelsea learned to tap into the potential of their 'world class' academy

For much of Roman Abramovich's 19-year ownership, Chelsea's aim has been instant gratification. There was never any desire to build a specific identity or culture around the club; it was win or change until they win.

Despite enjoying a reputation for one of the finest academies in England, the Blues' lack of long-term vision restricted opportunities for young players. John Terry, former club captain, made his way through the youth ranks for his debut in 1998, but few followed in his footsteps.

Everything seemed to change in the summer of 2019 when Frank Lampard, Chelsea's all time top goalscorer, became manager and a transfer ban took hold.

Now, with Lampard long since departed and Thomas Tuchel in the hot seat, Chelsea go into Sunday's Carabao Cup final against Liverpool with five academy graduates in their squad and a youth production line the envy of the Premier League.

One of these graduates, Mason Mount, has since made more than 100 appearances for the club, and become a regular member of England's senior squad. Yet as he tried to make his way, spending time on loan in the Netherlands with Vitesse and then with Frank Lampard at Derby, his family wondered if Stamford Bridge was the right place for him.

Mount's father Tony told BBC Sport: «The academy, the quality of the coaching and everything associated with it was world class. But having been there nine years leading up to Mason getting a scholarship, there was nothing to change my mind about him staying there because there wasn't a pathway.

»I told Mason that no player had progressed and sustained a career in the Chelsea first team since John Terry. I met with other clubs who were talking about pathways. I made Chelsea aware but Mason told me he wasn't going anywhere,