Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca(Image: PA Wire/PA Images)
Chelsea's head coach Enzo Maresca has described the training conditions in Philadelphia as "almost impossible" due to the sweltering 37-degree heat ahead of their clash with Esperance de Tunis today.
The Blues had to modify their training regime at Subaru Park, curtailing the session and seeking refuge in shaded areas, as they prepare for a pivotal Club World Cup match that could see them either progress to the last 16 or suffer an early exit.
Chelsea and Manchester City players will have a shortened summer break, with the Premier League getting under way in just 52 days on August 16.
Newcastle and their Premier League rivals will be watching events closely, with the battle for a Champions League place next season again likely to be demanding.
With the oppressive weather severely affecting their preparations, Chelsea's build-up to the decisive Group D game has been less than optimal.
"It is almost impossible to train or to make a session because of the weather," Maresca said on the challenging conditions. "Now we are trying just to save energy for the game.
"This morning's session has been very, very, very short. It's not easy in these conditions with these temperatures. We are going to try to do our best."
Maresca also indicated squad rotation for the upcoming game, with captain Reece James likely to miss out due to illness, alongside defender Levi Colwill who is also under the weather.
Nicolas Jackson will be absent from the fixture, serving a suspension following his red card for a dangerous tackle in the 3-1 loss to Flamengo.
Enrico Maresca, commenting on the congested fixture list and player fatigue during Chelsea's tour in the US, remained candid, admitting players wouldn't be forced to play if they felt fatigued.
The Blues have a mixed start with three points from two matches, having beaten Los Angeles FC 2-0 before losing to Flamengo.
Maresca emphasised his desire for integrity over making excuses: "I always try to avoid excuses," he stated. "I always try to be honest. It's not about excuses, it's about reality."
"It's an excuse when it's not hot and we say that it's hot. That is an excuse. But if hot, it's hot. It's difficult to work with these temperatures but we are here and we trying to do our best and we will try to win.
"Now in terms of the session, it's impossible to do a normal session, otherwise you don't save energy for the game.
"We did the session this morning, it was quite short, we prepared for the game and we will try to do our best to go to the next stage."