Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has recalled English-Ghanaian defender Josh Acheampong to his squad ahead of their game against FC Astana in the UEFA Conference League.
Acheampong was earlier frozen out of the Chelsea team due to his unwillingness to extend his stay at the club.
Since September, the talented defender has not played a competitive game for the Blues.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Maresca revealed Josh Acheampong has been included in his squad for the Astana clash on Thursday as they work to agree on a deal with the player.
“He is in the squad, yes, and is probably going to play from the start.
“For Josh, it is quite clear: The club love Josh, I love Josh, and we are trying to find an agreement with the player. We are close, we are almost there, but we will see.”
Acheampong, who has been a target for Liverpool was one of the many academy players who were handed their debut at the tail end of the 2023/24 season under Mauricio Pochettino.
The 18-year-old made his debut for the club in the 2-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur in May coming for the last 12 minutes of the encounter.
Under Enzo Maresca, Acheampong played 27 minutes in the EFL Cup game against Barrow in September, with that being his only appearance so far.
