There was no 2nd or 3rd place. Mark was called in first and Dee was called in second. Mark Gradioselski was offered a place at the Academy on a non-contract basis meaning that if he keeps up his education, Mark can train twice a week and be available for selection on a Saturday for the Academy.

The boys had an amazing last couple of weeks whilst waiting for the final result. They were sent back to their schools, they went off to Holland to train and play with Vitesse Arnhem's Academy and in a game that they played Arnhem's team won 6-1 against a team of U-23 amateurs. Then the boys were flown to Korea with they trained with the reserves of Suwong Bluewings, who Chelsea are affiliated to since the sponsorship deal with Samsung was announced.

Ex-Chelsea legend and Academy coach Eddie Newton accompanied the boys on the trip.

For their final 'test' the boys played in an Academy friendly in front of 'The Special One' Jose Mourinho against Wycombe Wanderers Academy and won 4-2. Unfortunately for Mark, he was injured on his return from Korea and had to have an operation of his knee so therefore was unavailable to play.

After the game the boys were told by Jose that if they didn't win Football Icon, Chelsea would help to find them a club which I thought was a nice and surprising touch.

Well done Sam for your success and well done to Mark and 'Dee'.

The Academy are away to Norwich on Monday evening in the FA Youth Cup and it could be that Sam makes his full debut. The game is being shown live on Chelsea TV, but there will be updates, news and scores on the message board.

40 YEARS A BLUE