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‘Whisper’ strengthens claim for top award
May 07, 2024
Jamaican international Dujuan 'Whisper' Richards continued his good form for Chelsea's Under-21, with two goals in their 5-4 extra-time win over Brighton Under-21 in Premier League Two round-of-16 play-off on Friday, after an impressive month of April, which included him being listed among the candidates for the Player of the Month award.
The former Kingston College star made it 2-1 for Chelsea in the 41st minute, after earning a penalty and slotting home on a second attempt after his initial kick was saved.
The 18-year-old then put Chelsea 3-1 up with one of his trademark strikes - cutting in from the right and curling a precise shot into the far post.
Brighton fought back to tie the game 3-3 before full time, but Chelsea went on to win 5-4 in extra time.
Richards' outstanding performances over April, where he scored twice in a 4-0 win over Aston Villa and once in a 2-0 win against Southhampton along with two assists, put him in the running for Player of the Month, which will be announced this week.
Richards, who started his career with Chelsea's Under-18 squad, has been enjoying life in their second team.
His contribution of three goals and two assists in four games helped Chelsea to an unbeaten run in April and took his tally to seven goals for the season, which makes him their third-highest scorer, behind Ronnie Stutter with 11 and Leo Castledine with 10.
Richards officially joined the London-based Chelsea on January 12 and debuted with the under-18s on February 8 but has been one of the most impactful players in the youth league despite starting midway through the season.
If selected by a Premier League Football Development Panel this week, it will be Richards' first Player of the Month award in England.
