Chelsea: Jorrel Hato shirt number confirmed ahead of potential debut as teammate is stripped of spot | OneFootball

The versatile Dutchman is raring to go after joining the Blues from Ajax

Defensive recruit: Jorrel Hato

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Jorrel Hato has learned of his Chelsea shirt number ahead of a potential debut this weekend.

A versatile defender who can play full-back and centre-back, the Dutchman was initially expected to provide competition and cover for Marc Cucurella.

However, an unfortunate injury blow to Levi Colwill - who has successfully undergone knee surgery - could mean Hato is needed in central defence if the Blues do not go out and sign a replacement.

“I’m very excited and so happy to be here,” he said after joining the club. “I thought a lot about my future and wanted to take the next step in my career.

“Chelsea is the best place for me to do that so I’m very happy.”

Jorrel Hato could make his Chelsea debut against Bayer Leverkusen

Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Salomon Kalou, Nemanja Matic, Ryan Bertrand, Jody Morris and Hernan Crespo are among the previous owners of the Chelsea No21 shirt, but this decision means Ben Chilwell is now without a squad number.

The left-back is back at Chelsea after spending the second half of last season out on loan at Crystal Palace, though this is another clear indication that he does not have a long-term future at the club.

Along with Raheem Sterling, Chilwell was one of nine players omitted from the Blues’ new squad list that was published on the club website at the beginning of the week.