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    Chelsea discover four potential opponents for Conference League knockouts but won’t know who they play for MONTHS

    CHELSEA have discovered the four teams they could potentially meet in the Europa Conference League round of 16.The Blues concluded their comfortable league phase campaign with a 5-1 win over Shamrock Rovers last night.Chelsea breezed through to the last 16Credit: AFPEnzo Maresca will have some big decisions to make for the group stageCredit: EPASix wins out of six saw Enzo Maresca’s men top the 36-team group with minimal fuss.As one of the top eight, Chelsea will skip the play-off round, contested between teams placed between nine and 24.Instead, they will move straight into the round of 16.And waiting for them there will be one of FC Copenhagen, Gent, Heidenheim or Real Betis.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAt the Conference League draw today, Gent were drawn against Real Betis, with Copenhagen facing Heidenheim. Last 16 ties are not due to commence until March, with first legs on the sixth and seconds on the 13th.The play-off round, meanwhile, will take place in February.Chelsea’s position in the bracket will not be confirmed until the draw on February 21, meaning they could still face the winners of either match.Most read in FootballThe Blues and second seeds Vitoria, or Portugal, could end up on either side of the bracket.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSChelsea are set to learn their position in the bracket on February 21It means Maresca’s men have a good chance of meeting a side they have already faced in the competition next up.They defeated Gent 4-2 at Stamford Bridge on matchday one back in October.Chelsea clash with Shamrock Rovers temporarily stopped as Christopher Nkunku pelted with TOILET ROLLWhile they triumphed 2-0 at Heidenheim just three weeks ago.It remains to be seen how seriously Maresca will take the competition.Their 25-man squad for the group stage left out star man Cole Palmer, as well as Wesley Fofana and Romeo Lavia.Maresca was asked by TNT Sports last night about whether Palmer could be added to the squad for the knockouts.’A BIT UNHAPPY’He said: “Depends on January. In January we don’t want to sell players, but players who are not playing a lot will be a bit unhappy.”It depends on what happens in January and then we decide.READ MORE SUN STORIES”This competition will be up until March and then we have the FA Cup.”The players have to be ready as they are going to play.”Chelsea ratings vs Shamrock as Marc Guiu gives keeper nightmares but Casadei fails to impressCHELSEA made it six Europa Conference League wins in a row with a 5-1 drubbing of Shamrock Rovers.Striker Marc Guiu got a hat-trick while Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Marc Cucurella also got in on the goals.Here is how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players…FILIP JORGENSEN – 7Didn’t have much at all to do throughout. Commanded his box well, and couldn’t do much about the goal.JOSH ACHAEMPONG –  6All eyes were on the young defender who has just signed a new long-term deal at Stamford Bridge.He played as a more defensive-minded right-back in Maresca’s system, who looked good in that role.AXEL DISASI – 6A commanding performance from the French centre-half, he showed maturity in his game, was always an outlet for the Chelsea midfield.RENATO VEIGA – 6A very solid performance from Chelsea’s number 40. Unpolished, but physically strong and composed on the ball – this tournament should prove brilliant for him in a blue shirt.MARC CUCURELLA – 8Acted as a leader inverting into midfield for Chelsea, mostly playing as the left-sided number 10. Scored a classy right-footed goal into the bottom left corner to cap off a great performance.CESARE CASADEI – 4Turned his back on a volleyed effort which he then deflected into his own net with a flick. Andrey Santos on loan at Strasbourg will be an upgrade on him next season. KIERNAN DEWSBURY-HALL – 8His best game in a Chelsea shirt to date, a tenacious performance saw him battle to win the ball high up and press the Shamrock defense really well. Looked overjoyed to net his second Chelsea goal since joining from Leicester.NONI MADUEKE – 7His excellent first touch and dazzling feet were on full show, getting the Chelsea fans on their feet a few times.It looked like his good deliveries would get no reward until he provided a classy assist for Marc Guiu’s hat-trick goal.CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU  – 7Was kicked around the pitch like a ragdoll by the visitors, but constantly drove the team forward and won foul upon foul in the first half for The Blues. Worked tirelessly and perhaps didn’t get the reward he deserved after being bought down before Dewsbury-Hall netted Chelsea’s third.Notched an assist as Marc Cucurella finished into the bottom left corner to add a fifth.TYRIQUE GEORGE – 7Looks a special player on the ball for the Blues, and it’s easy to see why fans are so excited about him for the future. A raw talent who is far from the finished product in terms of his final ball – his brilliant run created the defensive chaos that allowed Marc Guiu to finish with ease.Was unfortunate not to add a goal to his performance after he sent a Shamrock defender for a Guinness at the end of the game before seeing his shot well blocked.MARC GUIU – 10Scored his fourth, fifth and sixth Europa Conference League goals in six matches to make him the competition’s highest scorer as it stands.The Shamrock Rovers goalkeeper will be seeing Marc Guiu’s face when he closes his eyes for at least the next few weeks.Chelsea fans will be seeing shades of Olivier Giroud’s Europa League run in 2019.SUBS:HARVEY VALE (MADUEKE, HT) – 5Having looked far too good to be playing for Chelsea’s u21’s this season he was rewarded with a half in this game. Failed to have the impact that Noni did in the first half, but it was far from a bad performance by the youngster.HARRISON MURRAY-CAMBPELL (DISASI, 59) – 6Didn’t look out of place at the heart of the Chelsea defence when making his debut for The Blues, and looked equally as competent at right-back. One to watch for the future.JOAO FELIX (GUIU, 60) – 5Showed signs of promise after coming on from the bench, but was unable to find the back of the net.SAMUEL RAK-SAKYI (DEWSBURY-HALL, 83) – 5Another composed few minutes in midfield for The Blues. 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    Chelsea player ratings: Marc Guiu gives Shamrock Rovers goalkeeper nightmares but Cesare Casadei fails to impress

    CHELSEA made it six Europa Conference League wins in a row with a 5-1 drubbing against Shamrock Rovers. Striker Marc Guiu got a hat-trick while Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Marc Cucurella also got in on the goals. Chelsea strolled past Shamrock RoversCredit: ReutersMarkus Poom did get an unlikely leveller but it only sparked a fierce and one-sided fightback by Enzo Maresca’s men. And here is how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated Chelsea’s players from Stamford Bridge. FILIP JORGENSEN – 7Didn’t have much at all to do throughout. Commanded his box well, and couldn’t do much about the goal.READ MORE IN football JOSH ACHAEMPONG –  6All eyes were on the young defender who has just signed a new long-term deal at Stamford Bridge.He played as a more defensive-minded right-back in Maresca’s system, who looked good in that role.AXEL DISASI – 6A commanding performance from the French centre-half, he showed maturity in his game, was always an outlet for the Chelsea midfield.Marc Cucurella celebrates with Renato VeigaCredit: AlamyRENATO VEIGA – 6A very solid performance from Chelsea’s number 40. Most read in FootballUnpolished, but physically strong and composed on the ball – this tournament should prove brilliant for him in a blue shirt.MARC CUCURELLA – 8Acted as a leader inverting into midfield for Chelsea, mostly playing as the left-sided number 10. Scored a classy right-footed goal into the bottom left corner to cap off a great performance.Cesare Casadei failed to make his markCredit: GettyCESARE CASADEI – 4Turned his back on a volleyed effort which he then deflected into his own net with a flick. Andrey Santos on loan at Strasbourg will be an upgrade on him next season. KIERNAN DEWSBURY-HALL – 8His best game in a Chelsea shirt to date, a tenacious performance saw him battle to win the ball high up and press the Shamrock defense really well. Looked overjoyed to net his second Chelsea goal since joining from Leicester.NONI MADUEKE – 7His excellent first touch and dazzling feet were on full show, getting the Chelsea fans on their feet a few times.It looked like his good deliveries would get no reward until he provided a classy assist for Marc Guiu’s hat-trick goal.Noni Madueke and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall celebrate togetherCredit: RexCHRISTOPHER NKUNKU  – 7Was kicked around the pitch like a ragdoll by the visitors, but constantly drove the team forward and won foul upon foul in the first half for The Blues. Worked tirelessly and perhaps didn’t get the reward he deserved after being bought down before Dewsbury-Hall netted Chelsea’s third.Notched an assist as Marc Cucurella finished into the bottom left corner to add a fifth. TYRIQUE GEORGE – 7Looks a special player on the ball for the Blues, and it’s easy to see why fans are so excited about him for the future. A raw talent who is far from the finished product in terms of his final ball – his brilliant run created the defensive chaos that allowed Marc Guiu to finish with ease.Was unfortunate not to add a goal to his performance after he sent a Shamrock defender for a Guinness at the end of the game before seeing his shot well blocked.MARC GUIU – 10Scored his fourth, fifth and sixth Europa Conference League goals in six matches to make him the competition’s highest scorer as it stands.The Shamrock Rovers goalkeeper will be seeing Marc Guiu’s face when he closes his eyes for at least the next few weeks.Chelsea fans will be seeing shades of Olivier Giroud’s Europa League run in 2019. Marc Guiu was the man of the momentCredit: GettySUBS:HARVEY VALE (NONI MADUEKE, HT) – 5Having looked far too good to be playing for Chelsea’s u21’s this season he was rewarded with a half in this game. Failed to have the impact that Noni did in the first half, but it was far from a bad performance by the youngster.HARRISON MURRAY-CAMBPELL (AXEL DISASI, 59) – 6Didn’t look out of place at the heart of the Chelsea defence when making his debut for The Blues, and looked equally as competent at right-back. One to watch for the future.JOAO FELIX (MARC GUIU, 60) – 5Showed signs of promise after coming on from the bench, but was unable to find the back of the net.READ MORE SUN STORIESSAMUEL RAK-SAKYI (KIERNAN DEWSBURY-HALL, 83) – 5Another composed few minutes in midfield for The Blues.Chelsea clash with Shamrock Rovers temporarily stopped as Christopher Nkunku pelted with TOILET ROLL More

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    Chelsea 5 Shamrock Rovers 1: Marc Guiu bags first-half hat-trick as Blues make light work of Irish

    CHELSEA were pelted with toilet paper but are on a roll with their best run for eight years.Play was halted for a few minutes in the first half when Christopher Nkunku came under attack from a hail of Kleenex three-ply launched from the away end as he tried to take a corner.Chelsea ace Marc Guiu scored a hat-trick against Shamrock RoversCredit: GettyKiernan Dewsbury-Hall added to Chelsea’s Conference League triumphCredit: GettyMarc Cucurella sealed another big victory and Chelsea’s perfect winning runCredit: GettyChelsea’s young side dominated Shamorck RoversCredit: AFPBut the diversion tactics backfired as boss Enzo Maresca rounded off the first phase of the Conference League with his 100 percent record intact and an eighth successive win in all competitions.That hasn’t been seen since 2016 and is a sign of the marked upturn under the Italian this season.Striker Marc Guiu clinched a hat-trick by half-time to add to two he scored against Kazakhstanis Astana last week.The Spaniard put his team in front on 22 minutes when Rovers full-back Darragh Burns and keeper Leon Pohls got in a muddle with a cushioned back header.Read More on ChelseaChelsea were pegged back briefly when Markus Poom – son of former Derby keeper Mart – scored with a heavily-deflected shot four minutes later to level.The wild scenes among the Irish contingent in the Shed End were quickly quelled though as Chelsea regained their lead from another cock-up in defence when Dan Clearly underhit a back-pass and Guiu nipped in to round the keeper and score.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall made it 3-1 five minutes before the break and Guiu wrapped up a memorable first half for himself by heading home a cross from Noni Madueke.Maresca included teenage centre-back Josh Acheampong in the starting line-up just a few days after the 18-year-old signed a new five-year contract.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThere was also experience in the team with Spain Euro 2024 winner Marc Cucurella playing in only his second Conference League game of the campaign.Cucurella is banned from Sunday’s away trip to Everton for being sent off after the final whistle once the Blues had beaten Brentford 2-1.Enzo Maresca breaks silence on Mykhailo Mudryk’s failed drugs test and gives update on his Chelsea futureHe signed off with a goal in the 58th minute by knocking in a shot off the inside of a post.European football takes a back seat until March for Maresca now and that might not be the total blessing it looks on paper.He has a strong squad of young and hungry players who are desperate to be part of his plans.The FA Cup, which kicks off on January 11 against League Two outfit Morecambe, will not offer so many matches as a secondary competition to keep them happy the way the Conference League has up to now.Maresca took his foot off the gas after Cucurella’s goal and handed a debut to academy full-back Harrison Murray-Campbell. More

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    Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock Rovers LIVE RESULT: Guiu bags hat-trick as Blues top Conference League table – updates

    CHELSEA has thrashed Shamrock Rovers 5-1 in the Conference League.Marc Guiu headed in for the game’s opener on 22 minutes after a defensive howler from the visitors.Minutes later, Markus Poom’s heavily deflected strike equalised for Shamrock Rovers.Guiu got his second of the night before Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall slotted in to make it 3-1 to Chelsea.Right on half-time, Guiu completed a stunning first-half hat-trick with a superb header.Left-back Marc Cucurella added a fifth with an excellent finish just before the hour mark.Chelsea’s 5-1 win over Shamrock Rovers secured their spot at the top of the league phase table.Match result: Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversChelsea team: Jorgensen, Acheampong, Disasi, Veiga, Cucurella, Casadei, Dewsbury-Hall, Madueke, Nkunku, George, GuiuShamrock Rovers team: Pohls, Lopes, Grace, Cleary, Honohan, O’Neill, Poom, Watts, Burns, Farrugia, KennyFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFollow ALL the action from Stamford Bridge with our live blog below…Match reportChelsea were pelted with toilet paper but are on a roll with their best run for eight years.Play was halted for a few minutes in the first half when Christopher Nkunku came under attack from a hail of Kleenex three-ply launched from the away end as he tried to take a corner.But the diversion tactics backfired as boss Enzo Maresca rounded off the first phase of the Conference League with his 100 percent record intact and an eighth successive win in all competitions.That hasn’t been seen since 2016 and is a sign of the marked upturn under the Italian this season.Striker Marc Guiu clinched a hat-trick by half-time to add to two he scored against Kazakhstanis Astana last week.Copy linkCopiedWinning run to continue?Looking at their next five games, you’d have to say they have a great chance to continue racking up victories.Though it is a tough, grueling schedule for all those involved…It’s an away trip to Goodison at the weekend before a home derby with Fulham on Boxing Day.Away trips at Ipswich and Crystal Palace round off the festivities.Copy linkCopiedUnhappy star man tonight…Marc Guiu was given a 10 by Lloyd.But Enzo Maresca admits tonight’s star man is UNHAPPY.Purely as the two names ahead of him in the pecking order – Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku – are also doing well.He told TNT: “Marc is a bit unhappy as Nicolas and Christopher are doing well.”When you’re a nine and another nine is doing well it is a matter of being questioned. It is important that they work hard day-by-day and then they get a chance.”Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – AttackersNONI MADUEKE – 7: His excellent first touch and dazzling feet were on full show, getting the Chelsea fans on their feet a few times. It looked like his good deliveries would get no reward until he provided a classy assist for Marc Guiu’s hat-trick goal.CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU  – 7: Was kicked around the pitch like a ragdoll by the visitors, but constantly drove the team forward and won foul upon foul in the first half for The Blues. Worked tirelessly and perhaps didn’t get the reward he deserved after being bought down before Dewsbury-Hall netted Chelsea’s third. Notched an assist as Marc Cucurella finished into the bottom left corner to add a fifth. TYRIQUE GEORGE – 7: Looks a special player on the ball for the Blues, and it’s easy to see why fans are so excited about him for the future. A raw talent who is far from the finished product in terms of his final ball – his brilliant run created the defensive chaos that allowed Marc Guiu to finish with ease. Was unfortunate not to add a goal to his performance after he sent a Shamrock defender for a Guinness at the end of the game before seeing his shot well blocked.MARC GUIU – 10: Scored his fourth, fifth and sixth Europa Conference League goals in six matches to make him the competition’s highest scorer as it stands. The Shamrock Rovers goalkeeper will be seeing Marc Guiu’s face when he closes his eyes for at least the next few weeks. Chelsea fans will be seeing shades of Olivier Giroud’s Europa League run in 2019. Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – MidfieldersCESARE CASADEI – 4: Turned his back on a volleyed effort which he then deflected into his own net with a flick. Andrey Santos on loan at Strasbourg will be an upgrade on him next season. KIERNAN DEWSBURY-HALL – 8: His best game in a Chelsea shirt to date, a tenacious performance saw him battle to win the ball high up and press the Shamrock defense really well. Looked overjoyed to net his first Chelsea goal since joining from Leicester.Copy linkCopiedPlayer ratings – DefendersSunSport’s Lloyd Canfield runs the rule over tonight’s Chelsea players, starting with those at the back.FILIP JORGENSEN – 7: Didn’t have much at all to do throughout. Commanded his box well, and couldn’t do much about the goal.JOSH ACHAEMPONG – 6: All eyes were on the young defender who has just signed a new long-term deal at Stamford Bridge. He played as a more defensive-minded right-back in Maresca’s system, who looked good in that role.AXEL DISASI – 6: A commanding performance from the French centre-half, he showed maturity in his game, was always an outlet for the Chelsea midfield.RENATO VEIGA – 6: A very solid performance from Chelsea’s number 40.  Unpolished, but physically strong and composed on the ball – this tournament should prove brilliant for him in a blue shirt.MARC CUCURELLA – 8: Acted as a leader inverting into midfield for Chelsea, mostly playing as the left-sided number 10. Scored a classy right-footed goal into the bottom left corner to cap off a great performance.Copy linkCopiedEnzo speaksEnzo Maresca admits being ‘very happy’ with the performance from his young side tonight as they swept away Shamrock Rovers.He told TNT Sports: “I am very happy with the performances and results. In these kind of games, it is easy not to do. They showed how professional they are and this is the right way.”Since we started we have tried to share minutes – tonight was for young players. Josh Acheampong and Tyrique George are still very young, but we are very happy with them.”In these kind of games it is easy not to do and have the right performance, but they know if they don’t work properly they are not going to play.”Copy linkCopiedSome runIt’s now 11 games unbeaten in all competitions for Chelsea after tonight as they continue to roll on nicely.More impressively, as Andy pointed out earlier, it’s now EIGHT wins on the bounce for the Blues.Their best run of form for eight years!Copy linkCopiedChelsea’s European resultsGranted, they’ve not come up against too much.But it’s been a really good campaign up until now for Chelsea’s second string.Chelsea 4-2 GentPanathanaikos 1-4 ChelseaChelsea 8-0 NoahHeidenheim 0-2 ChelseaAstana 1-3 ChelseaChelsea 5-1 ShamrockCopy linkCopiedMore from KDHOn his goal, Dewsbury-Hall added: “That is what the gaffer wants, he wants the attacking midfielders to sniff out opportunities.”I am happy to get another one.”Copy linkCopiedTop scorersIt looked set to be a Chelsea man at the top of the scoring charts with Christopher Nkunku in a three-way dead heat before kick-off.This has been his competition and it looked like he had a huge chance to top the standings.But his team-mate MARC GUIU has pipped him to the post with his hat-trick tonight!Three Blues players amongst the top scorers….6 – MARC GUIU5 – Christopher Nkunku, Krzysztof Piatek, Johnny Kenny, Milos Pantovic, Afimico Pululu4 – Kevin Denkey, Frederik Ihler, Jonathan Ikone, Joao Felix, Matheus AiasCopy linkCopied’Good vibes’Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall says playing in this competition is helping ‘relieve’ the pressures of Premier League football and giving fringe players a chance to shine.He told TNT: “Another good night at the Bridge.”A lot of people will say we are big favourites and honestly, we probably are, but in football it is not easy to keep winning.”Six wins out of six is pretty good.”This tournament is relieving a lot of pressure for some of the people who play in the Premier league and it’s a chance for young academy lads to make their debuts.”It is a good vibe at the moment.”Copy linkCopiedMatch statsOne final look at tonight’s stats, with Chelsea registering five goals, from ten shots on target, from 20 shots in total.A nice piece of symmetry there and Enzo Maresca will be delighted with his fringe players for the work they put in.They registered over 3x as many completed passes as the visitors, with the possession hitting over 80% at one stage before the substitutions in the second half.Copy linkCopiedPerfect sixSix wins from six games.A ridiculous =21 goal difference after scoring 26 goals in those six games.Chelsea miles clear of the opposition heading into the latter stages.As for Shamrock Rovers – ouch. They’ll be absolutely gutted to just miss out on the top six after a stellar run so far.Copy linkCopied’Smiling again’Chelsea hero Joe Cole told TNT Sports: “To come out of the cold be professional and clinical. Young lads make another appearance and Chelsea moved the ball really well.”Everyone at Chelsea is smiling again.”Copy linkCopiedFT!Chelsea round off a perfect Conference League phase in style!CHELSEA 5-1 SHAMROCK ROVERSCopy linkCopied90 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversTwo minutes added.Copy linkCopied89 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversLate chance for Shamrock Rovers to get another one on the night.Cleary’s goal bound attempt is blocked and Burke’s follow-up is well saved by Jorgensen.Copy linkCopiedSecond half view from SunSport’s Andy Dillon at Stamford BridgeChelsea about to clinch their eighth win in a row in all competitions – their best run of form since 2016.A sign of the marked upturn in confidence under head coach Enzo Maresca, although it helps when you face the cannon fodder of the Conference League like they have tonight in Shamrock Rovers.Three of those eight victories have been in Europe so let’s not get carried away with things.Shamrock Rovers, Astana of Kazakhstan and Germans Heidenheim did not present the biggest test for a billion squad Blues squad. Copy linkCopied85 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversDelightful play from George who works space inside the box.He sits the defender down with a fake shot to work it inside onto his left foot and his curled attempt for the far corner is well blocked on the line by a retreating defender.Copy linkCopied83 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversFinal Chelsea change with seven minutes to play, as the final goalscorer left on the park is replaced.OFF: Dewsbury-HallON: Rak-SakyiCopy linkCopied81 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversAnd by the way, it was a foul that was as clear as day.But just outside the box.Copy linkCopied80 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversReally, really nice play from Shamrock to work through the thirds and eventually Burke picks it up 25 yards from goal.A change of pace from him as he darts towards the box before going to ground.The referee makes an odd movement towards him as if he’s about to award a free kick or penalty, or something anyway. But he waves play on.Copy linkCopiedCan’t stop scoringCopy linkCopied72 – Chelsea 5-1 Shamrock RoversThe game a bit stop-start at the minute as Shamrock Rovers make a couple of quickfire double substitutions.Copy linkCopied More

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    Chelsea clash with Shamrock Rovers temporarily stopped as Christopher Nkunku pelted with TOILET ROLL

    CHRISTOPHER NKUNKU was pelted with TOILET ROLL in Chelsea’s clash against Shamrock Rovers. The Blues hosted the travelling Irish side in the Europa Conference League group stage. Christopher Nkunku was pelted with toilet roll in Chelsea’s clash against Shamrock RoversThe ref had to stop the gameNkunku looked fed upCredit: PAKiernan Dewsbury-Hall joined Nkunku in clearing it upCredit: ReutersBut the game was temporarily halted as Nkunku was unable to take a corner amid the onslaught of loo roll being chucked his way. The referee stopped the game as Nkunku and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall did their best to clean up the corner area. The game did resume shortly afterwards. Chelsea are unbeaten in their five Conference League matches and so too are Rovers – with Blues boss Enzo Maresca scouting them.READ MORE IN football Maresca said: “We try to approach every game in the same way: to do our best and win the game.”Today in football it is difficult to find a team that has no strengths. “All the teams have something good, and some things we can try to work on and win the game.”I watched four or five [Shamrock] games and they are a good team. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS”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.” Enzo Maresca breaks silence on Mykhailo Mudryk’s failed drugs test and gives update on his Chelsea future More

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    My dad’s a former Arsenal star who reached Champions League final – I’m now planning Chelsea’s downfall

    CHELSEA fans may clock a familiar surname in the opposition for tonight’s Conference League clash with Shamrock Rovers.Former Derby and Sunderland keeper Mart Poom’s son Markus will be in midfield, on loan from Estonians FC Flora.Markus Poom will face Chelsea for Shamrock RoversCredit: SportsfileHis father Mart spent time at Arsenal during his careerCredit: GettyMart also spent a short spell at Arsenal between 2005 and 2007 during which he picked up a Champions League runners-up medal.He was in the squad as the Gunners were beaten 2-1 by Barcelona in the final.Poom Jr was born here while his famous dad was playing at Derby but he is an Estonia international like his father.Markus Poom, 25, is under no illusion how tough Chelsea will be.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBut with his own side sixth in the Conference League, he is determined to enjoy a big night out in London.Poom said: “It’s something to look forward to.“When the draw was happening, you want that game and you do kind of want it at Stamford Bridge.“But we’re not going to go there to just play the game.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“We’ll have a plan for it and hopefully get points.”Poom’s spell in the League of Ireland could get him noticed by English clubs.Enzo Maresca breaks silence on Mykhailo Mudryk’s failed drugs test and gives update on his Chelsea futureWho are these famous footballers?His UK passport means he can play without needing a work permit.He added: “Chelsea are probably the biggest team in the competition.“With their new manager, it’s an exciting time to play them.”Can you name the famous fathers?Meanwhile, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca how vowed to stick by Mykhailo Mudryk in his fight against a doping ban.He believes the Ukrainian did not knowingly take a banned substance.Mudryk’s urine showed traces of meldonium, considered a performance enhancing drug.The 23-year-old could be banned for up to four years if convicted.Maresca said: “We trust Misha and we support Misha. And trust means that we believe Misha.“It’s not just about Misha or about young players in general.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s my duty to try to have a close relationship with players because I like it that way. So even with Misha it’s exactly the same and I’m there to try to help Misha in anything he needs.“I think he’s going to come back. We just don’t know when.” More

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    Astana 1 Chelsea 3: Marc Guiu scores twice past keeper wearing a BEANIE as young Blues win in crazy -14C conditions

    YOU can question why Chelsea were playing over 3,000 miles from home – but the bigger farce is the fact they are in the Conference League at all.The travel for their trip to the outer reaches of Kazakhstan, where it was -14C when Enzo Maresca’s men landed, was always going to be a bigger concern than the Astana side waiting there for them.Chelsea extended their perfect Conference League run at AstanaCredit: ReutersMarc Guiu took advantage of a rare Chelsea start in KazakhstanCredit: ReutersRenato Veiga sealed Chelsea’s three points before half-timeCredit: GettyChelsea’s youngsters stood out in subzero temperatures at AstanaCredit: AFPThis latest Conference League encounter brought three goals, five debuts and a sixth win on the bounce for the Blues – taking them into the Last 16 after Christmas.All very good, all very cheery – all rather pointless at this stage of the competition.Maresca insists he will only ever focus on the next step of the competition, but if they are not in Wroclaw for May’s final something will have gone horribly wrong.Chelsea sit top of the group stage, having won five from five, scoring 21 goals and conceding just four.Read More on ChelseaAfter the ordeal of their eight-hour flight, skirting between two warzones on the way, the Blues’ youngsters showed fine discipline in Almaty.Maresca had told his Chelsea squad to try and remain on English time during their travels.And for the most part they made this look like an afternoon stroll on a heavy surface cleared of snow by undersoil heating.Pedro Neto’s punishment for picking up a suspension for Sunday’s meeting with Brentford was a seat on the flight east.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe winger was the only player who started at Tottenham to make the journey, but made a real difference.After seeing an early effort denied by Astana’s beanie-wearing keeper Mukhammedzhan Seysen, Neto set up the first two goals for Marc Guiu.How Chelsea embarrassed Spurs with Enzo Fernandez leading genius in-game tactical shake-upChelssea ratings vs Astana as Marc Guiu shines on rare opportunity in freezing cold KazakhstanMARC GUIU impressed as Chelsea romped to victory in freezing-cold Kazakhstan.The Blues claimed a 3-1 win over Astana in the Conference League to maintain their perfect record in the competition.Here’s how SunSport’s Henry Tomlinson rated the Blues stars…Filip Jorgensen – 6Never really troubled in the Chelsea net and made a couple of comfortable saves.There was little he could do to stop Marin Tomasov’s brilliant strike.Renato Veiga – 7He netted his second goal of the Conference League campaign with an easy header in the first half.But he was beaten too easily by Tomasov before he netted Astana’s goal.Josh Acheampong – 6Looked comfortable in the defence on his return to the team despite his ongoing contract dispute.Tosin Adarabioyo – 6Dealt with the Astana attackers fairly well and put in some tidy passes.Axel Disasi – 6Took the armband for the match and looked solid in the backline for Chelsea.Samuel Rak-Sakyi – 6Did well in the midfield to win the ball back and get Chelsea moving forward.Carney Chukwuemeka – 5Chukwuemeka struggled in the game as he was clearly desperate to get on the scoresheet.The midfielder wasted multiple chances for the Blues to extend their lead.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 6Was involved in a lot of the build-up play throughout for Chelsea.Dewsbury-Hall also picked up an assist for his corner kick, which was headed in by Renato Viega.Pedro Neto – 6Forced a good save early on when the game was still goalless. He proved to be a constant threat on the wing.It was the winger’s cross that led to the second goal, which was bundled into the net.Tyrique George – 7Looked very composed when on the ball and threatened with his driving runs into the box.He almost netted his first goal for the club, only to see his effort cleared off the line.Marc Guiu – 8The Spanish striker broke the deadlock with a fantastic goal. He took on his defender and put in a clever finish to beat Mukhammedzhan Seysen.He made it a brace with a fortunate goal that was bundled in.SubsAto Ampah 45′ – 5Struggled to get into the game and make an impact for the visitors.Harvey Vale 66′ – 5Did okay when he came into the action.Shim Mheuka 77′ – NAGot a decent run out in the last minutes against Astana.Keanu Dyer 85′ – NAReplaced Samuel Rak-Sakyi late on in the match.The opener, though, was all to do with the Spaniard.The former Barcelona man collected the ball wide right and strode past the Astana defence like they were training mannequins before finishing at the near post.Having shown his pace and power, the second was pure instinct – given Guiu could hardly have known what was going in.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall fed Neto out wide, with his cross finding the back of the net off the side of Guiu’s torso.Having raced into a two-goal lead, Chelsea eased off until, 20 minutes later, Renato Veiga added a third.The Portuguese was left free in the Astana box to rise and nod in a Dewsbury-Hall corner.Youngsters dominateMaresca’s men were cruising, though the hosts offered a sharpener on the brink at half-time as captain Marin Tomasov cut inside Veiga and poked into the far corner.Tomasov’s goal gave Astana a bit more bite after the break and Filip Jorgensen had to tip over another effort from the Croatian.Maresca started making the changes and Harvey Vale almost scored with his first touch, while Tyrique George and Dewsbury-Hall both went close.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut the second half was a display of control and maturity from a very young group.On Chelsea march, with anyone who matters tucked up warm at home and ready for Brentford on Sunday. 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    Chelsea ratings vs Astana: Guiu takes advantage of rare start to triple goal tally but Chukwuemeka fails to take chance

    MARC GUIU impressed as Chelsea romped to victory in freezing-cold Kazakhstan.The Blues claimed a 3-1 win over Astana in the Conference League to maintain their perfect record in the competition.Marc Guiu was clinical against AstanaCredit: ReutersCarney Chukwuemeka put in plenty of effort but was not rewarded with a goalCredit: APGuiu, 18, opened the scoring for Chelsea with a brilliant individual goal inside 15 minutes.He beat his defender before slotting past the goalkeeper to set the Blues on their way to victory.The striker doubled up as he helped bundle the ball in after good work from Pedro Neto.Renato Veiga also got himself on the scoresheet as he nodded in Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s corner.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLSunSports’ Henry Tomlinson has given his ratings of Chelsea’s players…Filip Jorgensen – 6Never really troubled in the Chelsea net and made a couple of comfortable saves.There was little he could do to stop Marin Tomasov’s brilliant strike.Renato Veiga – 7He netted his second goal of the Conference League campaign with an easy header in the first half.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut he was beaten too easily by Tomasov before he netted Astana’s goal.Josh Acheampong – 6Looked comfortable in the defence on his return to the team despite his ongoing contract dispute.The state-of-the-art stadium with special features that will host Chelsea’s clash vs Astana in extreme -13C temperatures Renato Veiga netted Chelsea’s third with a tidy headerCredit: APTosin Adarabioyo – 6Dealt with the Astana attackers fairly well and put in some tidy passes.Axel Disasi – 6Took the armband for the match and looked solid in the backline for Chelsea.Samuel Rak-Sakyi 85′ – 6Did well in the midfield to win the ball back and get Chelsea moving forward.Carney Chukwuemeka 66′ – 5Carney Chukwuemeka should have made more from his chancesCredit: GettyChukwuemeka struggled in the game as he was clearly desperate to get on the scoresheet.The midfielder wasted multiple chances for the Blues to extend their lead.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 6Was involved in a lot of the build-up play throughout for Chelsea.Dewsbury-Hall also picked up an assist for his corner kick, which was headed in by Renato Viega.Pedro Neto 45′ – 6Pedro Neto was a constant threat in the first halfCredit: GettyForced a good save early on when the game was still goalless. He proved to be a constant threat on the wing.It was the winger’s cross that led to the second goal, which was bundled into the net.Tyrique George – 7Looked very composed when on the ball and threatened with his driving runs into the box.He almost netted his first goal for the club, only to see his effort cleared off the line.Marc Guiu 77′ – 8The Spanish striker broke the deadlock with a fantastic goal. He took on his defender and put in a clever finish to beat Mukhammedzhan Seysen.He made it a brace with a fortunate goal that was bundled in.Subs Ato Ampah 45′ – 5Struggled to get into the game and make an impact for the visitors.Harvey Vale 66′ – 5Did okay when he came into the action.READ MORE SUN STORIESShim Mheuka 77′ – NAGot a decent run out in the last minutes against Astana.Keanu Dyer 85′ – NAReplaced Samuel Rak-Sakyi late on in the match. More