'My uncle was a big inspiration' - Chelsea midfielder reveals he was inspired by ex-Super Eagles defender

Chelsea midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu has revealed that he was inspired by former Super Eagles defender and his uncle Onyekachi Apam.

Apam was a defender during his playing days who represented Nigeria-based club Enugu Rangers, Ligue 1 outfit Nice and Major League Soccer side, Seattle Sounders before his retirement.

Taking a cue from the former Nigeria international, Ugochukwu also played in the Ligue 1 with Stade Rennais before his move to Chelsea in the summer transfer window.

The France youth international broke out very early in his career as he made his professional debut at the age of 16 and would go on to make 60 appearances across all competitions for Rennes.

The talented midfielder has revealed that he was inspired by the performances of Akpam and how the latter has helped shape his career.

"My uncle was a big inspiration. He had some injuries that kept him off the pitch, but the way he played when he was in Nice inspired me a lot." Ugochukwu told the official webpage of Chelsea.

"I remember when I was 15 years old, I went to see him in Nice. He gave me some advice about what I needed to do, and what I needed to avoid, for my career.

"Everything goes fast in football, so you have to be careful what you do outside the pitch. He told me to focus on the football, enjoy my football and keep being serious, to not get distracted."

Ugochukwu has had a tough start to life at Stamford Bridge as he has struggled for game time which is also a cause for worry for Thierry Henry, his coach at the national team.

The 19-year-old has made twelve appearances across all competitions for Mauricio Pochettino's side, with five only being as a starter.

With stiff competition in Chelsea's midfield and the need to start getting positive results consistently,  Ugochukwu will have to take a massive step up to force his way into Pochettino's plans.

Abdulkareem Abdulhamid

Copyright ANS

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com