In the first game of 2024 for Chelsea, they ran out eventual 4-0 winners against Preston North End in the FA Cup after a poor first half.

An all-round impressive performance from virtually every player in blue on the pitch in the second half and in this piece we will take a subtle look at Armando Broja.

An academy graduate with an “Homegrown” tag, 22-year old Armando Broja got his second goal of the season tonight with a brilliant Diego Costa-esque headed finish.

Starting as the team’s leading striker with Jackson away with the Senegalese national team, Broja’s well taken finish comes at the perfect time to boost his confidence and further aid his upward turn in form after his injury enforced hiatus.

Coming back from a devastating injury as such as the one Broja suffered (ACL tear), it was always going to see the player struggle to return to his optimal best and Broja has proven to be no exception.

Forced out on the sidelines for almost a year, Broja has taken a slower pace in the race to full recovery.

Pain, endurance and frustration are just a couple of emotions players on the sideline deal with and the mentality to overcome those hard times is tough enough to have many breakdown but getting abuse upon their return to the pitch makes it even harder to give your best.

The abuse has come in abundance towards Broja but the former Southampton loanee has brilliantly dealt with the abuse and sometimes unfair criticism.

Impressive hold-up play, sharp turning, good striker’s movements and composure in front of goal are a couple of Broja’s impressive traits.

With Jackson potentially absent for the duration of a month due to Senegal’s participation in the AFCON, Broja is sure to get all the game-time he needs to convince his doubters of his true potential and ability.

The Chelsea-coaching staff and fans will all be hoping that Broja’s well taken goal boost his confidence and he takes the next step to getting back his full match fitness and sharpness in front of goal.