The striker joined the club from Darlington in the early 1980s, stepping into a vastly different environment in London.
“It was a massive transformation… everything’s full speed ahead,” Speedie told Football Presse.
His move came during a rebuilding phase for Chelsea, with manager John Neal assembling a side that would eventually win promotion and lay the foundations for future success.
Speedie quickly formed part of a formidable attacking unit alongside Kerry Dixon and Pat Nevin.
“Speedie, Dixon and Nevin… we became best of friends,” he said, despite early clashes with Dixon.
The former striker also highlighted the importance of Bates in shaping the club’s modern identity.
“He transformed the club. Chelsea is what it is today because of Ken Bates,” Speedie explained.
While Bates was often a controversial figure, Speedie appreciated his direct approach.
“He was honest, brutally honest… I got on okay.”
Speedie also reflected on the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge during his playing days, when the stadium still featured a running track.
“When it’s more enclosed, it’s obviously a better atmosphere,” he said, contrasting it with the modern ground.
Despite challenges adapting to life in London, Speedie’s time at Chelsea proved pivotal in his career.
“It was a step up… totally different atmosphere,” he added.
His five-year spell at the club helped establish him as one of the most distinctive forwards of his generation.