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Gael Kakuta has revealed how he worked overtime behind closed doors at Chelsea to ensure his progress didn't suffer while he was banned by FIFA.
Kakuta made an impressive debut for Chelsea as a substitute in the 4-0 victory over Wolves on Saturday, despite having spent over two months of the season without being able to play any competitive football.
The 18-year-old shot to fame for all the wrong reasons in September after FIFA found Chelsea guilty of inducing him to break his contract with Lens in 2007.
Chelsea were handed a two-window transfer ban, while the midfielder was given a four-month suspension.
It meant he was unable to even play for the youth team and was restricted to taking part in training sessions. But Kakuta just worked harder than ever on his game and fitness and was given an unexpected opportunity to show the benefits after Chelsea successfully got both of FIFA's sanctions put on hold while they wait for their appeal to the Court of Arbitration to be heard.
Kakuta, who made his playing return in three matches for France Under-19's during the international break before starring against Wolves, said: "I have been out because of the ban so I have been working hard every day in training doing double sessions and I feel good. It has felt a bit like doing pre-season. When the boys have finished training I have still been working in the afternoon.
"I've been waiting a long time to make my debut and I am really happy to have done it. I wasn't nervous at all. Whenever I play I just try to do my best."
Chelsea's victory means they are eight points ahead of rivals Arsenal, who they take on at Emirates Stadium next week.
Reader views (3)
I an Arsenal fan but everyday I waited to see Gael Kakuta debut in the EPL. I was not dissapointed. He is electrifying. FIFA bound him over to Arsenal now!!!. Fergie and his troops must be fretting on seing the debut.
- Barry, Kingston, Jamaica, 27/11/2009 09:49
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FIFA want to ban him from playing for FOUR months (two of which he's already served). What happens if both he and Chelsea are cleared of any wrong doing ? FIFA led by the iniquitous Blatter, along with the shady Platini's UEFA, are a disgrace. World and European football's administrators and executive are a bunch of undemocratic conspirators. It stinks.
- Charlie, Nr. Crackpot, North Yorkshire, 23/11/2009 15:31
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Carlo, Carlo, Carlo! feed my boy Kakuta. I have anointed him as the new huge successful talent in Chelsea's history. He will help Chelsea alone win trophies of the highest level and quantity for the longest period of time. Carlo, feed him always for you have been given what it takes by HIM. Long live Chelsea Football Club and the Team, great success Elohim giveth to the Chelsea team. Be the great team of all time.
Order of Elijah the Prophet Decrees!!
- Kofi-Gimel(P&S Of Ep), London, UK, 23/11/2009 15:29
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