Chelsea defender Alfie Gilchrist admits he's enjoyed a massive past year.

Gilchrist has just completed a US preseason tour with the senior squad.

He told the club's website: "I had a lot of injuries in 2021/22, I'd play a game and then miss two. I was growing, adapting, and getting older. So I did quite well last season on that front.

'I was captain for the last half of the season, when Bashir [Humphreys] went on loan, which gave me confidence. I had a good season. And then leading into this one, I'll stay for at least another six months and then see what happens. I'll always be available when needed.

"For pre-season, I came back a week early to train on my own with Leo [Castledine]. Got back to Cobham, and then had pre-season in Portugal. And then I went to America, so things are good - I'm loving it!"