Chelsea skipper James hails 'phenomenal' Walsh after European start

Chelsea will face Real Betis in Wroclaw on May 28 after beating Swedish side Djurgarden 5-1 on aggregate in the UEFA Conference League semi-finals. The final gives the Blues a massive chance to earn their first trophy since the Club World Cup in 2021/22.

Reece James said he was delighted with the club's return to European football following Thursday's 1-0 victory in the second leg. "It's an amazing feeling, playing in Europe is where the club belongs," he said. "We are happy to be in another final. Hopefully, we can finish off well."

16-year-old Reggie Walsh became the youngest player to start a European game for Chelsea against Djurgarden, with manager Enzo Maresca continuing to use the Conference League as an opportunity to start the more peripheral figures in his squad.

"It's an amazing academy that produces amazing players like Reggie Walsh," James said of the young midfielder. "I was surprised, I've never seen him play before. I've trained with him many times, but he was phenomenal today."

By winning the Conference League, Enzo Maresca's side would be guaranteed direct access to the Europa League next season. However, they will be aiming to seal Champions League qualification via a top-five Premier League finish, as they sit fifth with three games remaining.