Chelsea fan stunned at presenting Premier League trophy
Last updated on .From the section Football
A Chelsea fan says she was shocked and ecstatic at being asked to present the Premier League trophy to club captain John Terry on Sunday at Stamford Bridge.
Rachel Key, 25, was told of the news by ex-Blues star Marcel Desailly, who came to her London home with the trophy.
"My eyes were popping out of my head," Key said of the surprise visit.
She was chosen to present the trophy from a pool of students enrolled on the Barclays Premier League Works scheme.
The programme, supported by the club and backed by Barclays, provides young people with financial skills, confidence and the experience they need to make a positive transition back into education, access training or gain meaningful employment - and help them achieve their life goals.
Key, who has aspirations to become a coach, added: "I'm really excited and nervous. I don't have a clue what to say to John Terry. I think I need a few tips.
"This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I'm really grateful."
Chelsea won the Premier League title earlier this month when they beat Crystal Palace 1-0. They host Sunderland on the final day of the top-flight season on Sunday.
"The last couple of years have been difficult because I've been in jobs I haven't enjoyed. I had no direction in life and thought I would keep going in and out of jobs I didn't enjoy it," Key said.
"It was explained to me at the scheme what platforms I need to get to to become a coach. They offered me a BTEC sports course which will allow me to become a fully qualified coach by the end of July. Then I would like to do my FA badges so I can become a proper football coach."
And what club would she like to take charge of?
"That's a silly question. The answer is Chelsea," she said.