Roman Abramovich leaves new Chelsea owner brilliant parting gift amid concerning takeover future

Harvey Vale's second-half cameo off the bench to replace Callum Hudson-Odoi in Chelsea's FA Cup fifth round clash against Luton Town was illustrative of Roman Abramovich's evergreen legacy.

The Russian billionaire confirmed his decision to sell the club in a heartfelt statement ahead of the Blues' 2-3 win over the Hatters, in a tie which epitomised his 'dream.'

Thomas Tuchel's side prided themselves with six Cobham graduates in the squad that travelled to Kenilworth Road - five of which featured, each proving pivotal towards clawing back a place in the quarter-finals.

However, Vale's symbolic introduction sent a strong message to Abramovich's heir to the throne at Stamford Bridge.

The 18-year-old midfielder was brought on at 1-1 and turned the tide for Chelsea, taking centre stage with an impressive performance.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek showered Vale with praise, asserting that the teenager didn't look out of place.

"He did really well tonight. He held his own against some physical and strong players. He didn't look out of place at all," he said, speaking to Chelsea's club media.

"Well done, Harvey. I'm sure it felt natural to him. It looked very natural to him. Hopefully, he can kick on now and get confidence from that."

To replace a fellow academy graduate and then be lauded by another, both of whom - retrospectively - resemble the old and new testament at Cobham, is particularly telling in Abramovich's final game.

The 55-year-old achieved his dream, and Vale's emergence illustrated the self-sustaining circle of life that will continue to produce world-class prospects.

“They will always have a real interest in bringing young players through, and that comes directly from the owner, Roman Abramovich,” said Eddie Newton, who