Fluminense vs Chelsea: Blues youngster excited to face mentor Thiago Silva in Club World Cup

A Chelsea midfielder has discussed Thiago Silva's Influence on him at Stamford Bridge ahead of Tuesday's Club World Cup semi-final.

Andrey Santos is set to face his former Chelsea mentor Thiago Silva as the Blues prepare for their Club World Cup semi-final against Fluminense.

Chelsea secured their semi-final spot by defeating Palmeiras, with Santos making his first start for the club in the 2-1 victory.

While the Brazilian youngster holds great admiration for Silva, who won three trophies, including the Champions League, during his successful four seasons at Stamford Bridge, the midfielder views him purely as a rival in this crucial match.

Chelsea midfielder Andrey Santos (Credit: Chelsea FC)

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Santos extols Silva influence

Looking ahead to the clash at MetLife Stadium, Santos emphasised Silva's significance to Chelsea fans but stated his determination to beat the seasoned defender.

“Thiago Silva was so important for me during my first season here,” Santos explained ahead of Tuesday’s semi-final.

“He is so important for Chelsea and Chelsea fans, too. But tomorrow he is my rival, so we have to work hard against him.

“It’s a big game tomorrow against a big team. We have to prepare well because the game is so important for us, a semi-final, so we have to work hard and make sure we are ready.”

Fluminense pose a formidable challenge, having remained unbeaten in the Club World Cup, eliminating Inter Milan and Al-Hilal on their path to the semi-finals.

Santos acknowledged the tournament's importance for Chelsea and stressed the need for further improvement to secure a place in the final.

“For sure, this tournament is so important for us,” continued the young midfielder. “All the tournaments we come to win, but we know we have to improve as well against Fluminense. We will take it step by step.”