Young midfielder Lucas Piazón has been named in Chelsea’s Champions League squad for the 2012/13 season, along with his fellow Brazilians Oscar, David Luiz and Ramires.
The 18-year-old is part of the 25-man squad named by the reigning Champions League winners, who kick off their European campaign against Juventus on September 19.
Piazón, who has been likened to Real Madrid"s Kaká, is yet to make a senior appearance for the Blues, following his move from São Paulo in 2011.
However, due to some impressive performances in the reserves, the starlet was handed the number 35 senior shirt last year.
Piazón was an unused substitute for Chelsea during their Premier League draws against Swansea City and Manchester United, and their final day 2-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers last season.
Former Chelsea boss and ex-scout, Andre Villas-Boas, spoke highly of the youngster, telling reporters: “He [Piazón] has trained more with the first team, which is very good for him.
“He"s made great progress since arriving and in the last two games was on the bench. Unfortunately, he had no opportunity to enter, but has done a great job in the reserves team.
“He is a player that we have high hopes for."
Piazón was named Chelsea’s Young Player of the Year in his first season and helped the club lift the FA Youth Cup in the same week.
He said: “I am very happy and I didn"t expect this. It has been a fantastic week for me.
“David Luiz and Ramires have helped me a lot here as when I came in I was alone. I hope to be at Chelsea for a long time and I will keep working."
Piazón, who has represented Brazil at youth level, has been named in Chelsea’s squad alongside his fellow countrymen David Luiz, Ramires and summer signing Oscar.
Roberto Di Matteo"s side have been drawn against Shakhtar Donetsk, Juventus and Danish side Nordsjælland in Group E, as they look to retain their title.
