It’s one thing to make the bench for a Premier League derby.
It’s another to come off it, with your team a goal down, and swing the match in your favour. But that’s exactly what Tyrique George did on Saturday, as Chelsea clawed back a 1-0 deficit to beat Fulham 2-1 in the dying minutes.
Made in Cobham
George has been turning heads at youth level for some time now.
Quick, intelligent, and direct, he’s a classic wide player with a modern edge. He can beat his man, but he’s equally happy linking play and drifting centrally to affect the game. Those who’ve watched PL2 or the Conference League this season will know he’s not short of confidence either.
Enzo Maresca has been quietly integrating him into first-team training over the past few months. After a few bench appearances and starts in the Conference, including a goal in Warsaw. Saturday was his moment to prove he could show up when it mattered.
Right Place, Right Time, Right Finish
Coming on in the 78th minute, George wasted no time. Five minutes later, he received the ball on the left flank, cut inside with that trademark shift onto his right, and picked out the far corner with calm well beyond his years. No panic. No flash. Just pure composure.
It wasn’t just the goal. His movement off the ball, the way he found space between Fulham’s lines, and his willingness to track back showed a maturity that will give Maresca something to think about.
A Word of Caution
Let’s not get carried away. One goal doesn’t make a career. But it’s not about numbers just yet. It’s about moments. And George took his moment like a seasoned pro.
Chelsea fans love a homegrown talent who can rise in big moments. Think of Reece at Ajax, or Mount at Wolves. Tyrique George may just have written the first line of his own story.
What’s Next?
With Gusto picking up a knock and the season entering its final stretch, don’t be surprised if George gets more minutes. Especially in matches where we need a bit of spark from the bench. The talent’s there. The stage is set. And now, he’s got the belief.
Chelsea’s future has always run through Cobham. On Saturday, it reminded us why.