The Blues prepared for our final European fixture of the year with a training session at Cobham this afternoon, just over 24 hours until we take on Shamrock Rovers at Stamford Bridge.
Our sixth and last game of the league phase pits us against the Irish side who, like us, are also unbeaten in the UEFA Conference League.
Shamrock have won three and drawn two of their five games so will present stern opposition at Stamford Bridge in one of the biggest games in their history.
Enzo Maresca warned against complacency in his media conference conducted before training started.
‘I watched four or five [Shamrock] games and they are a good team,’ stressed Maresca.
‘They try to defend as a block all together, and play face to face with the other team. I’m quite convinced all the games are difficult.
‘It depends on us, the way we take that game, and it can become easier or more difficult, but for sure it will be another game we try to win.’
Earlier on Wednesday, Josh Acheampong signed a new contract until 2029. The 18-year-old made his first European appearance for the Blues in last week’s win in Kazakhstan, and he will be hoping for another start when we take on Shamrock.
‘We had him in pre-season and I didn’t know him personally but within two or three days, he really impressed me,’ Maresca said of the 18-year-old.
‘The club has found an agreement with him and we are all happy because we are all convinced and we are all sure Josh can be a great player for this club.’
We will see if the next step in his development is taken when we meet Shamrock. Kick-off at the Bridge is at 8pm UK time on Thursday.