Ben Chilwell sends three-word message to Crystal Palace fans, Reece James reacts
Ben Chilwell shared a message with Crystal Palace fans on social media after making his first few appearances for the club.
The left-back joined Crystal Palace on a short-term loan from Chelsea in the January transfer window until the end of the season.
Chilwell’s arrival was initially met with scepticism from Crystal Palace supporters, who were unsure about the signing. However, he has since added valuable depth to Oliver Glasner’s squad.
Despite the team’s 1-0 defeat to Everton on 15 February, Chilwell remained in good spirits after making his first Premier League appearance for the club.
Ben Chilwell is trying to turn his career around at Crystal Palace
The England international took to Instagram to share a collage of photos from his first few weeks at Palace, captioning the post: “First few weeks.”
Former teammates Reece James, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Malo Gusto all showed their support by liking the post.
The left-back endured a difficult spell at Chelsea, struggling for game time as Marc Cucurella was preferred at left-back.
The former Leicester City defender made just one appearance for the Blues this season, leaving Chelsea fans frustrated with how Enzo Maresca managed Chilwell’s situation.
Since arriving at Selhurst Park, he has already played more minutes for Palace than he did all season at Stamford Bridge, making two appearances in quick succession.
Chelsea struggle as Chilwell establishes himself as Palace regular
After the club allowed Renato Veiga to join Juventus on loan, some Chelsea fans questioned Maresca’s decision to freeze out Chilwell, especially given the squad’s limited options at left-back.
However, the club was willing to take that risk, and the Englishman now has a fresh opportunity to revive his career at Palace.
Veiga had also been unhappy with his lack of game time at Chelsea, and with his departure, Maresca’s options at left-back have become even thinner. Meanwhile, Glasner’s side only have Tyrick Mitchell in that role, making Chilwell a much-needed addition to provide depth.
Despite the defeat in his first Premier League appearance against Everton, Chilwell and his new side will have the chance to bounce back in a London derby against Fulham on 22 February.