Young Nigerian midfielder Tariq Uwakwe was a surprise exclusion in Chelsea U18 squad that thrashed Reading 3-0 at Cobham to secure the U18 Premier League national title on Friday night.

The 17-year-old has explained that he was not available for selection against The Royals due to illness.

''Gutted to not be involved today due to illness but I know the boys will bring the 🏆 home today,'' Uwakwe posted on social media.

This season, Uwakwe, who has been dubbed the new Obi Mikel because of his defensive and offensive qualities, scored 8 goals in 27 appearances for Chelsea U18s.

The London native is an England U18 international .

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : chelseafc.com