Chelsea starts 16-year-old Reggie Watson in League Cup match against Leeds

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 7:03 PM

Last updated Sep 9, 2026

Chelsea starts 16-year-old Reggie Watson in League Cup match against Leeds
Summary

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso named 16-year-old Reggie Watson to the starting lineup for Wednesday's League Cup fixture against Leeds United. Watson, a defensive midfielder, is set to make his senior debut for the club while wearing the No. 31 jersey. He will feature in the midfield alongside Valentin Barco. Watson recently played for Chelsea's U21 side, scoring goals in victories against Bournemouth and West Ham United last month. The teenager, who does not turn 17 until early next year, has previously captained England at both the U15 and U16 levels. He is the son of former Premier League midfielder Ben Watson, whose career included stints at Crystal Palace, Watford, Wigan, and Charlton.

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By the Numbers
  • Reggie Watson starts in the midfield for Chelsea against Leeds United in the League Cup.
  • The 16-year-old previously played for Chelsea's U21 team last month.
  • Watson has experience as captain for England at the U15 and U16 international levels.
  • He is the son of former Premier League player Ben Watson.
Latest Updates
  • 7:03 PMYahoo SportsWho is Reggie Watson? Chelsea start 16-year-old son of Premier League veteran in League Cup vs Leeds
What they're saying
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Watson, a defensive midfielder, scored in Chelsea's U21 wins over Bournemouth and West Ham United last month.

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