Reece James can officially class himself as a Chelsea first-team player.
The right-back finally made his senior debut on Wednesday night, scoring once and weighing in with a couple of assists as the Blues thrashed Grimsby Town in the third round of the Carabao Cup.
Following an impressive loan spell at Wigan Athletic last season, the hope is that James will become a mainstay for the west London outfit in years to come.
However, five months ago James was in the dark in regards to his immediate future and has revealed exactly when he was told that another loan spell wasn't in the works.
"At the time I wasn't sure because the team did well last season, winning the Europa League," he told Goal. "I decided to take it as it comes really and when I found out I was staying, I was obviously happy.
"I'm glad I'm getting my chance.
"If you look at the past few years there probably isn’t as many who have played. Out there today there were four or five of us that got on the pitch.
"That's great for the academy. It shows the level and standard there is very good.
"Of course, looking at other young players getting a chance gives you a boost."
James summed up his debut following the game.
"Obviously it's a dream come true," he added. "I’ve played for this club since I was seven years old and it's always what I wanted.
"Just to play my first game here at the Bridge, in front of all the fans, that was probably the best occasion.
"[Lampard] told me the day before [that I would be starting] but I think it doesn’t settle in until you’re actually out there on the pitch.
"The atmosphere was buzzing, the stadium, everyone was jumping."
