Sign up to our newsletter for daily updates and breaking news Subscribe Thank you for subscribing See our privacy notice Invalid Email

John Swift admits a big part of his decision to leave Chelsea for Reading FC was down to how difficult it is for young players to get a chance at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues have an exceptional academy system, which has produced a series of fine sides throughout the various youth levels at the west London club.

Chelsea have won the FA Youth Cup five times in the last seven years and have also been crowned UEFA League winners in each of the last two seasons.

Yet despite that success, almost none of the players who have helped achieve it have been rewarded with consistent runs in the first-team.

Swift, who scored nine times to help the Blues lift the U21s Premier League title in 2013, understands the high level of expectation in west London means that managers are under massive pressure to win trophies.

But he believes that there are plenty of young players waiting in the wings at Chelsea who are good enough to make their mark - if given the opportunity.

“It’s obviously hard for any young players because it’s such a big team and there are so many big players there,” said the 21-year-old - who turned down a contract offer to stay with the Premier League giants.

“And there is so much pressure on the club to be high in the league and do well in the Champions League. They have high expectations for every single game they go into. So it is difficult for the manager to put young players in.

“But I do think there are quite a few at Chelsea who could push up into the first-team and do really well, if they are allowed to show what they can do.”

Swift added: “All you want is to try and prove yourself but it’s really hard for a player to get into the first-team. Everyone knows that.

“You go back for pre-season, you train with the first-team and try and show what you can do. But there are obviously so many other players that you are in and amongst.”

Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will start in 8 Cancel Play now

One young star who looks like he might well be on the cusp of making the step up to senior level at Chelsea is Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

The midfielder made 17 appearances last season and featured heavily under Guus Hiddink during the closing couple of months of the campaign.

And Swift hopes to see his England Under-21 teammate given more chances by new Blues boss Antonio Conte.

“Ruben has done well to push into the first-team. He’s worked hard and got his chance to play and he’s taken it,” said Reading’s new signing.

“Hopefully he can push on and show the other young players behind him that there is an opportunity.”