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A lot of us were surprised to see that Matt Miazga was is in the Starting XI for Chelsea versus Aston Villa on Saturday morning. We weren't the only ones.
‘I found out in the morning I would be in the starting 11. It’s my job, my profession and I have to be ready when I am called upon and show the manager I can contribute and help the club,’ Miazga said.
After the United States international went 90 minutes in the club's 4-0 win, Chelsea's official website caught up with Matt.
‘The boys were fantastic today. The starting 11 were brilliant and the guys who came in were flawless,’ Miazga said afterwards. ‘Aston Villa just lost their manager, so we knew they would be energetic trying to show their fans they are still in it, and the first 20 minutes was a bit like a chess match, but we settled down and got the first goal from Ruben. From there it was cruise control for us, we dominated the midfield with Cesc and Obi, and it was a comfortable win.
TV commentators praised Miazga's abilities on a regular basis throughout the match. They were very impressed with his composure for sure a young player on the big stage. A pretty big step in the career for the young defender. While there is still work to be done, he was happy with his play.
‘It was a good debut for me, I’m happy to contribute to the team and now I have to work hard in training to keep trying to get more chances.’
As the Premier League season winds down, we could see more of Matt playing Defense for the defending league champions. Chelsea Manager Guus Hiddink said he'd be letting the 'kids' play and with injuries in the squad he could get a starting nod again.
I would say that this match, while he needs some work - looked a lot better than his showing from the USMNT U23's as they crashed out of Olympic Qualifying.