Former and current Chelsea players have taken to social media to pay tribute to academy kit man Eric Asiedu, who passed away on May 8.
The Blues confirmed the news in a statement as the club described him as a ‘humble and warm character’, who was well-loved by players and staff at the Cobham training ground.
“Eric was a hugely popular figure at our Cobham training ground in his role as Academy kitman, always going about his work with an infectious smile and wonderful positivity. He will be sadly missed by us all and the pain of his sudden passing will be felt by many.”
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A number of the club’s past and current players took to social media to pay respect to the man known as ‘boss’ by players at the club, with former Blues skipper John Terry tweeting:
“RIP Eric. Heartbreaking news today. Boss, you will be deeply missed.”.
Callum Hudson-Odoi and Reece James, who have both come through the academy at the club’s Cobham training ground recently, also joined Terry to pay tribute to a man they have worked so closely with.
James joined his teammate, tweeting:
“Rest In Peace Eric. You was more than a kit man. You had a real clean heart, funny personality and always wanted the best for all the academy lads. Miss the days when I used to rummage for fresh Nike socks. Until we meet again fly high & rest easy. Will miss you.”
Chelsea, who embark on a new era under new owner Todd Boehly would need to rebuild their squad rather than improve it as a host of club’s established members are set to depart Stamford Bridge.
The club already have to replace centre-backs Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen, while full-back Cesar Azpilicueta and striker Romelu Lukaku are also almost certain to leave.
That coupled with the likes of Jorginho and N’Golo Kante approaching their final year of their contract means that the 2021 UEFA Champions League winners would have to do some shrewd business if they are to improve from their third-place finish in the Premier League next term.
