Tammy Abraham says he is '100 per cent' ready to lead the line for Chelsea if they ask him to next season.
The 21-year-old striker has enjoyed an outstanding season on loan at Aston Villa this year, top scoring for the club with 26 goals in 40 appearances to help the Midlands side end a three year wait for a return to the Premier League, after beating Derby 2-1 in Monday's Championship play-off final at Wembley.
Following such an impressive season Abraham's future has increasingly come under scrutiny, but he believes he is capable of stepping up for his parent club next season.
Asked by the Evening Standard whether he was confident he of leading the line for Chelsea next season, Abraham replied: “I do. I am still young, I am still improving.
"The aim is to be at the highest level and playing the best football, and if Chelsea say they need me there, I will put 100 per cent in."
Abraham is under no illusions of the challenge competing for a starting place at Chelsea will bring, but the striker is confident he can step up to the mark, adding: “Every player wants to start. Obviously, it is always difficult at a club like Chelsea because they have got world-class players.
"But, for me, it is about believing in myself and just keeping doing what I do. I do believe in myself, so wherever I am I believe I will score goals.”
Since graduating to Chelsea's senior side in 2016, Abraham has made just three appearances for the Stamford Bridge club, with season long loans in the second tier at Bristol City and Villa sandwiching a year on loan at Swansea, where he scored five goals in 31 league appearances as the Welsh side were relegated from the Premier League.
The Verdict
While Abraham's top flight record is somewhat unconvincing, he may still be a decent option for Chelsea next season.
The striker has stepped up and delivered all season for Villa, helping them achieve something that no one thought they would this season.
Abraham will therefore be brimming with confidence should he be called upon by Chelsea, and his experience being a first choice striker at Villa will surely serve him well.