'I've worked hard for this' - Jadon Sancho elated after match-winning assist bails out Chelsea on his debut

Sancho - who had endured a difficult period under Erik ten Hag at Manchester United - seized the opportunity to silence his critics with an impressive performance, during Chelsea's 1-0 win over Bournemouth, after coming off the bench and earned himself the man of the match award. His assist came just four minutes before the end of regulation time when he found fellow substitute Christopher Nkunku with a precise pass that the French forward converted to secure the win.

After the match, Sancho told BBC Sport: "First of all it is amazing to make my debut for Chelsea. Just being back playing I'm very grateful. The team played very well and we are happy with the three points.

"I've been working hard for this moment and I'm just happy that I got my chance. I had a great end to last season being in the Champions League final. I'm just happy to make my debut for Chelsea. I have to thank all the staff and my team-mates. The first day I came in, they made me feel welcome and I'm so happy to feel this comfortable."

Chelsea's decision to bring Sancho on loan, with a reported obligation to buy next summer, has given the winger a lifeline in the Premier League. It was his first English top-flight appearance since August 26, 2023, when he came on in a United shirt against Nottingham Forest. On Saturday, the winger showed flashes of his old self, dribbling past defenders and combining effectively with his team-mates to remind his doubters that he still has the fire in his belly to shine at the highest level.

With his strong showing on debut, Sancho has already made a compelling case to be included in Chelsea’s starting line-up. And new manager Enzo Maresca will have a decision to make ahead of Chelsea’s next Premier League fixture against West Ham on September 21.