'I wouldn't call myself old' - Tosin insists he's not worried about being Chelsea's oldest outfield player

Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo has dismissed concerns about his age, insisting that being the oldest outfield player in Enzo Maresca's youthful squad does not worry him.

The 28-year-old centre-back became the first player aged 28 or over to feature under Maresca when he came off the bench in the 3-0 Premier League win against Nottingham Forest. 

The Italian manager named the youngest starting XI of any club in the league this season for that match, with an average age of 23 years and 345 days.

"I wouldn’t call myself an old player at 28,” Tosin said in a press conference ahead of Chelsea’s UEFA Champions League tie against Ajax at Stamford Bridge. 

"I’m the eldest here but wouldn’t call myself an old player. It’s a young team. I feel my age. I feel 28 years of age. 

"It’s a great age, and I’ve still got a long way to go in the game. 28 is a great age to start kicking on and doing great things.”

Since Clearlake Capital and Todd Boehly took over in 2022, Chelsea’s recruitment policy has heavily focused on signing players aged 25 and under. 

The club has assembled one of the youngest squads in the Premier League, with an emphasis on long-term development under Maresca’s leadership.

Asked whether that approach made him fear being replaced by younger talent, Adarabioyo was quick to respond. 

"No, not at all. As long as you play at a high level and perform well, I don’t think it matters your age. 

"For me it doesn’t matter what your age is, as long as you’re giving your all and playing at a high level.”

Tosin, who joined Chelsea from Fulham, has been praised for his composure and leadership within a squad brimming with youthful energy. 

His presence provides experience in a team still adapting to Maresca’s tactical demands.

Wale Adejumo

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