Chelsea are likely to do even more chopping and changing than usual when they lineup for their next Conference League game against Astana.
Enzo Maresca has been keen to get a look at all of his fringe players in Europe this season, and this has not impacted their performance as they sit top of the table after four group games.
This week’s game brings about a brand new challenge for the Blues, as they prepare to brave the cold of Kazakhstan in the middle of a busy Premier League run-in.
For that reason, it was always expected that a number of youngsters who are eager to prove their worth will be named in the travelling squad.
The opportunity is there for Maresca to hand eight first-team debuts, and also hand some of those further along their first starts for the club.
Josh-Kofi Acheampong of Chelsea is challenged by Katia Kouyate of Barrow during the Carabao Cup Third Round match between Chelsea and Barrow at Sta...
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Josh Acheampong to start for Chelsea in Conference League vs Astana
It looked as if Josh Acheampong was potentially out of the plans at the club after being frozen out following reluctance to sign a new contract.
However, Maresca has said that the defender is likely to start tomorrow night as he looks to protect his players.
He said: “He’s in the squad and is probably going to play from the start. With Josh, it’s quite clear, we all love Josh, the club love Josh and I love Josh. We are trying to find an agreement with the player. It’s close, we are almost there.”
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Chelsea making progress with Acheampong contract
Chelsea are reportedly making progress with the Acheampong situation, which is great news for all parties.
The Blues have been comfortable in nearly all of their Conference League games this season, and the opportunity has been there for a number of youngsters to appear.
Acheampong has unfortunately missed out on these opportunities as of now, however it looks as if he will be given the opportunity to prove he can be a real asset to the club in Reece James’ absence from injury.
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