Who is Chelsea teenager Ruben Loftus-Cheek?

Loftus-Cheek, 18, will play some part against Sporting Lisbon

(Getty Images)

Jose Mourinho has confirmed that talented Chelsea teenager will play some part in the Champions League tie against Sporting Lisbon, with the Blues already assured top spot in Group G.

The 18-year-old will be making his senior debut for the club, more than 10 years after first signing for the Blues.

If and when he does make his debut, the central midfielder will be easy to spot. Despite his tender years he is an imposing physical presence, standing at 6ft 4in with excellent strength and a reasonable turn of pace.

He is supremely talented in possession and reminds those watching him of Patrick Vieira in his Arsenal pomp; Loftus-Cheek is a genuine box-to-box threat, he has an eye for a pass, is stern in the tackle and likes to pick the ball up and drive his team forward from midfield.

Loftus-Cheek impressed against Manchester City's first-team in the post-season tour of the US in May 2013 (Getty Images)

He probably won't be expected to do much of that on his Chelsea debut, but for the youth teams it has been a constant feature of his game.

Loftus-Cheek has played a starring role for Chelsea throughout his youth. He made his Under-18 debut as a 14-year-old and also came on as a substitute in the FA Youth Cup win that season.

With interest growing at home and abroad, with Manchester United and Barcelona believed to be keen, Chelsea handed him a contract reportedly worth in excess of £30,000-a-week in March 2013, such was the belief in his talents.

In May 2013 he travelled to the US with the first-team for the post-season friendlies against Manchester City and started both games, impressing against the might of Yaya Toure.

Chelsea's youth teams have dominated in recent seasons, winning both the Under-21 Premier League and FA Youth Cup last season, with Loftus-Cheek an integral part of their success despite his young age.

Loftus-Cheek has represented England at U16, U17 & U19 level (Getty Images)

The tall midfielder has also represented England at U16, U17 and U19 level.

He is extremely well thought of at the club, with many expecting him to be the first man since John Terry to truly make a mark on the Chelsea first-team.