RB Leipzig manager Julian Nagelsmann and former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand have given their backing to Chelsea's Ethan Ampadu.
The Chelsea loanee was named in the starting line-up for the Champions League last 16 clash against Tottenham Hotspur in north London, as reported Arsenal transfer target Dayot Upamecano was unavailable due to suspension.
Filling the boots of the France U21 international will not be an easy task but Nagelsmann, one of the most highly-rated young managers in Europe. is optimistic about his talents.
“At the end it is the same, we all have injured players, both Tottenham and RB Leipzig. Today, Upamecano was suspended so we have to replace him, with Ampadu, a Welsh guy, I think he will perform well," he told BT Sport.
“I think he will enjoy the game, he lives in London now and I think he has a lot of friends in the stadium, and he will perform well.”
Former United defender Ferdinand added that it was a great opportunity for Ampadu to show his ability in the competition, where he would be under the eyes of Europe.
“It is a great opportunity for the young Welsh lad, Ethan Ampadu. He is on loan from Chelsea and he has got an opportunity," he said.
"Like the attacking players for Tottenham, it is an opportunity, for three young defenders to play in a big arena, in a Champions League knockout stage game.
“The pressure is on, but what player wouldn’t like this, this is what every player dreams about and here’s your opportunity, go and take it.”
