The Pride of London bring you the most important Chelsea news topics from on and around Thursday, December 12. Join us as we round up three topical CFC stories which we consider vital and requiring the Blues fan base's attention.
First of all, Chels were in action midweek. This was an unusually awkward encounter, and not for the usual reasons. The Blues played Astana in Kazakhstan; a trip which is approximately 68 hours by plane as well as a ridiculous roughly 3,558 miles. So, how did the Stamford Bridge outfit get on all the way on the other side of the world in what could be described as arctic conditions?
Secondly, Liverpool captain and legend Virgil van Dijk has supposedly revealed the secret to the west London side's success. The Reds centre back is impressed with head coach Enzo Maresca. Van Dijk also gave his verdict on the possibility of Chels winning the Premier League title this season. Does the Dutchman give Maresca's men a chance of lifting the famous trophy? Or does the defender not believe the hype?
Finally, we look at some transfer talk and hearsay. That's because two young but promising players are reportedly set to leave CFC at some point. The pair haven't received the opportunities they wished for on Fulham Road. Now rumours suggest both would respectively like to relocate to other clubs.
The Blues continued their great Europa Conference League form by defeating the Sky Blue and Yellow team. Maresca oversaw his side win 3-1. The match kicked off in the unorthodox slot of 3:30pm British time.
Marc Guiu was on hand to score twice; one of his finishes may perhaps be deemed an own goal eventually. The handy Renato Veiga notched the other on the night.
Let's hear from Liverpool's big man now:
"Virgil van Dijk has ranked Chelsea among Liverpool's title rivals after their fine start
'Obviously we can talk about inexperience maybe but they have the quality, they have the players to make it difficult for any team and that is what they have been doing so they are definitely up there.'"
- Daily Mail
"Chelsea midfielder Cesare Casedei is ready to leave the club in the January transfer window. The Blues are in talks with Monza over a proposed loan deal for the Italian, it has been claimed."
- football.london
"Chelsea youngster Omari Kellyman is reportedly seeking a loan move in January after failing to break into the first team at Stamford Bridge."
- Express