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Ethan Ampadu admits to Chelsea "frustration" at lack of first-team minutes

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 08 September 2018

Chelsea ace Ethan Ampadu hopes to work his way into Maurizio Sarri's plans after impressing on his competitive international debut for Wales earlier this week.

Ethan Ampadu has admitted to being 'frustrated' by his lack of first-team appearances for Chelsea, but says that he is happy to bide his time.

The 17-year-old was named Man of the Match on his competitive international debut in midweek as he helped Wales to a thumping 4-1 win against Republic of Ireland in Cardiff.

Ampadu, who is comfortable playing in central defence or further forward in midfield, was used seven times by Antonio Conte last term.

Maurizio Sarri has yet to field Ampadu since taking over from Conte in the summer, however, and the versatile youngster knows that he has to take his chance when it arrives.

"You could say there's been frustration on one hand, but at the same time I'm getting experience training with the players," he told reporters.

"I'm just trying to improve to get into the team. This season's plans are this season's plans and at the moment I've just to keep improving to try and get in the team. I want to show the manager what I can do."

Sarri has previously vowed to give more playing time to the youngsters in Chelsea's squad during his time at Stamford Bridge.