Chelsea centre-backTosin Adarabioyo has opened up about how he earned the popular nickname "Uncle Tos" within the Blues dressing room.

Tosin, who struggled for game time earlier in the season with Chelsea, has recently enjoyed a run in the starting lineup following the departure of Enzo Maresca.

The former Manchester City defender has started in Chelsea's last two Premier League matches against Manchester City and Brentford, after being an unused substitute in the five games prior.

In an interview with TNT Sports Football, Tosin revealed that the moniker, which has stuck with him among teammates and fans, originated from a social media comment by his former England youth international teammate Noni Madueke.

"I think it was Noni last season," he said. "I think he commented on one of my post, saying Uncle Tos. And then from there, the fans  got onto it, and it's just stuck since then."

He added that the name is used daily by teammates and staff alike. Despite the awkward scenario, Tosin has embraced the nickname.

"Every day, even some of the staff. Marcos (Alvarez) calls me uncle every single day. I don't mind it. I take it upon myself, it's fine."

Born in England, Tosin has represented the country at various youth levels but remains eligible to play for Nigeria.

The Chelsea defender has yet to make his senior debut for England, with the Super Eagles keeping a close eye on his situation as they look to rebuild the squad following their third-place finish at the recently concluded AFCON tournament.

Adeyemi Adewale