Two Chelsea academy stars involved in first-team training ahead of Burnley clash
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Chelsea academy stars Jesse Derry and Shumaira Mheuka were both involved in first-team training on Wednesday in preparation for Saturday's Premier League clash against Burnley.
Following Chelsea's FA Cup fourth-round win over Hull City on Friday, Liam Rosenior decided to give his players some leave, taking advantage of the free mid-week schedule.
The players had about four days to recharge before reporting back to Cobham for training on Wednesday afternoon.
Key players such as Cole Palmer, Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, Joao Pedro, and Reece James were all present in the session.
Cole Palmer 🥶 pic.twitter.com/UZZlgmZ8iT
— CFC Pics (@Mohxmmad) February 18, 2026
So is Romeo Lavia, who reportedly stayed behind at Cobham for recovery during the mini-break and is expected to make his return soon.
Interestingly, the two academy players who made substitute appearances at Hull City, Derry and Mheuka, were both involved in the training as well.
Jesse Derry #CFC pic.twitter.com/1VJGxPQyWQ
— CFC Pics (@Mohxmmad) February 18, 2026
Acheampong & Mheuka #CFC pic.twitter.com/7FyT2AWBpq
— CFC Pics (@Mohxmmad) February 18, 2026
Derry made his Chelsea debut in that game, coming on to replace Estevao in the 77th minute, while Mheuka made a brief cameo in the final minutes.
Neither of the 18-year-olds has made Chelsea's matchday squad in the Premier League so far this season, although Mheuka already made his debut in the competition in February last year.
Considering Jamie Gittens' injury absence, Derry arguably has the better chance of making the bench for Chelsea in the next few games.
The Blues currently sit fifth in the league table, a point behind Manchester United in fourth.
They will host Burnley this weekend, before visiting Arsenal for another Premier League derby the following weekend on March 1.
Gerry Crisandy is a freelance writer who has covered Chelsea for many years. His work has been published on The Chelsea Chronicle and Pride of London. He grew up idolising Michael Ballack and is a firm believer in expected goals.