Makelele will be based largely at our Cobham training ground, working closely with individual Academy players, tracking technical performances in both training and matches as they reach a critical point in their professional development.

The 46-year-old will also work with Chelsea players out on loan, visiting them at their clubs and providing regular match feedback.

Returning to Chelsea, Makelele said: ‘I am very happy to come back home. This club gave me a lot and now I want to give back and help the young Chelsea players dreaming of a career in football. I want to use all my experience to help them become professionals in every aspect and I am looking forward to getting started.’

