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      Chelsea files: Blues caught in furious ‘s***ty pitch’ row as Maresca’s seven-goalkeeper dilemma sees him target Trafford

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      CHELSEA head to Sweden this week and straight into a bizarre ‘s****y’ pitch battle involving European opponents Djurgarden.Their hosts for the Conference League semi-final first leg are furious with the state of their OWN surface as they prepare for their biggest game in years. Chelsea take on Swedish side Djurgardens in the Conference League semi-finalCredit: EPADjurgardens striker August Priske admitted their pitch is ‘s****y’Credit: GettyThe pitch is an artificial one and the Djurgardens players and coaches are not happy with it. Usually it is the visiting opposition that kick up a fuss when they arrive and find it uncomfortable on an alien surface. Djurgardens overcame Austrians Rapid Vienna in the previous round but they lost the home leg and then came back in the away game to secure a dream date with Chelsea on Thursday. Striker August Priske said: “I don’t want to blame the pitch of course, but it’s a s****y pitch.”Djurgardens play at the multi-use 3Arena in Stockholm and share the multi-use stadium with rivals Hammerby.The Rolling Stones, Harry Styles and Celine Dion have all played there.Djurgardens’ coach Jani Honkavaara says: “Our training pitch is so different to the one at the stadium, it’s like night and day. The stadium pitches feel different from day to day.“It’s really tough for both us and our opponents. We get nothing extra from it.“The pitch is horrible. I have thought of letting us train more on the stadium pitch to get used to it.”Modern pitches often contain part man-made materials combined with grass. But there are fears that certain artificial surfaces can raise the risk of injuries to players.The stadium is owned by the authorities in the Swedish capital and it’s believed cost issues prevent the surface being changed.Cole Palmer spotted running away from Stamford Bridge as baffled Chelsea fans ask ‘where is he going’Win a trip to the UEFA Conference League Final in Wroclaw with HankookChelsea are fifth in the Premier League as they prepare for Thursday’s game and boss Enzo Maresca needs everyone fit for the run to have their best shot at qualifying for next season’s Champions League.Winger Tokmak Nguen said: “The ball just slides away from your foot all the time. In deciding situations when you have decided what to do suddenly the ball has moved for no reason. We have told the club that something has to be done.”Better late than neverLATE KICK-OFFS have always been part of football – but never like this.Chelsea’s Conference League clash with Djurgardens is the first meeting between the two sides and has finally arrived 70 years late.In 1955 The Blues were celebrating winning the old First Division and as such were invited to compete in the newly formed European Champions’ Clubs Cup.They were drawn against Djurgardens and then Chelsea manager Ted Drake was hugely interested.However, in order to play, competing teams needed the permission of their respective national associations and at the time, Football League assistant secretary Alan Hardaker allegedly asked Chelsea to ‘reconsider’ because of the crowded domestic season.How times have changed – European football now rules the roost and the domestic calendar is taking a battering to make way for it.Chelsea are playing in the semi-finals of a competition in only its fourth year of existence as Uefa’s third-tier competition behind the 36-team Champions League and Europa League.KEEPING UP APPEARANCESCHELSEA’S goalkeeper dilemma shows no sign of slowing.The Blues have asked about Burnley keeper James Trafford, who is expected to leave Turf Moor this summer – despite their promotion back to the Premier League.Newcastle look likely to beat the west Londoners to his signing, having failed in a move for the England Under-21 international last summer.But Chelsea have asked the question in the hope they may be able to pull something off.Maresca is in a bind over what to do between the posts, with EIGHT stoppers on the club’s books.Borussia Dortmund keeper Gregor Kobel is also being eyed.Swiss star Kobel, 27, has established himself as first choice over his four years since arriving from Stuttgart in a £13m move.But Kobel, who has just one year left on his Dortmund contract, is ready for a change of scenery.Dortmund are steeling themselves for his departure, having already signed Diant Ramaj, currently on loan at Copenhagen from Ajax, on a four-year deal that starts this summer.That indicates Dortmund, who took midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka on loan from Chelsea in January, will be willing to do a £15m-plus deal.Robert Sanchez has spent most of this season as first choice at the Bridge and pulled off two vital stops in the weekend win over Everton.The former Brighton man has still to convince the Blues faithful, who are equally uncertain about Filip Jorgensen, who has made six Prem starts.Former Spain keeper Kepa is due to return from his loan spell at Bournemouth, Marcus Bettinelli has been the unused third choice this term.Another loanee due back is Djordje Petrovic, who has impressed at Strasbourg, while the Blues also have Lucas Bergstrom and Eddie Beach and have signed Genk teenager Mike Penders for next season.Chelsea want to sign Burnley goalkeeper James TraffordRobert Sanchez is still yet to win over the Blues faithfulTHE U-turn over Trevoh Chalobah has been completed – without even a flush of embarrassment.Central defender Chalobah was told he was surplus to requirements in August after being put in the Blues’ “bomb squad”.The home-grown 25-year-old had his preferred No 14 shirt stripped and handed to Portuguese flop Joao Felix before he was snapped up on loan by Crystal Palace.An injury crisis at the Bridge saw Maresca exercise a break clause in the deal to bring the defender back to SW6 in January, handing him the No 23 shirt.But Chalobah has now made himself first choice alongside Levi Colwill, despite the return to fitness of Benoit Badiashile.Maresca said: “Since Trev came back to us in January he’s done very, very well.“He’s playing games and helping us, defending when he needs to defend and also building from the back when we need him.“We’re very happy with Trev. Honestly, he hasn’t played a bigger role than I expected.“I knew he could help us. We never had any doubts about that.”Trevoh Chalobah has impressed Enzo Maresca since returning from loanCredit: GettyTROPHY HUNTERChelsea face the toughest run-in of the top five contenders, with clashes against champions Liverpool, Newcastle, Manchester United and Nottingham Forest.Maresca, whose decision to field a strong side for the home second leg of the Conference League quarter-final with Legia Warsaw backfired with a dreadful display in the 2-1 defeat, put Reece James on the bench against Everton.But some feel the Blues boss, aware of Mauricio Pochettino’s fate last summer, may value winning a trophy over qualifying for Europe’s main competition to secure his own managerial reputation.That could see him prioritising the two semi-final games against Djurgarden and then the potential final against Fiorentina or Real Betis in Wroclaw three days after the Prem finale.Moving the goalpostsChelsea fans may have to steel themselves for a FIVE-YEAR absence from Stamford Bridge if the club’s alternative stadium options fall through.Their neighbours in nearby Twickenham are on the front foot trying to lure the Premier League club to the newly renamed Allianz Stadium HQ of England’s rugby union team.RFU boss Bill Sweeney declared: “If Chelsea came, it would be a big financial number.”The 82,000 capacity is almost double that of Stamford Bridge currently and geographically is a much better fit than Wembley.The national stadium in North West London is regarded as an atmospheric graveyard for club games – as Tottenham found to their cost when they occupied the place for almost three years on a part-time and permanent basis while their new ground was built.There has been no update on the potential move to Earls Court with local Hammersmith and Fulham Council chiefs due to rule soon on a stadium-free mixed use plan by developers that could effectively determine the site’s future.If so, then a rebuild of Chelsea’s home since 1905 – which would likely be the fans’ preferred choice – might be left as the only option to expand the current 44,000 capacity.But complications caused by the Tube line running beside the ground and the nearby Brompton Cemetery mean club insiders fear a stand-by-stand rebuild is unlikely to be feasible.That would leave the Blues looking for a short-term let for between four and five seasons while the club’s new home was constructed.Twickenham’s restrictive Covenant agreement on staging events suggests the home of English rugby would be a non-runner even though the RFU seem interested in an arrangement, while Craven Cottage, Loftus Road and Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium would all be too small.That appears to leave Wembley as the best, if probably unpopular option, as the gate attendances would help make up a financial shortfall from the limits on other stadium income.Chelsea could play at Twickenham if Stamford Bridge is rebuiltCredit: AlamyO Romeo O RomeoCHELSEA fans were delighted to see Romeo Lavia back in action at the weekend.But the Belgian midfielder’s return left Maresca pondering what might have been.Lavia, 21, has made just NINE Prem starts, all this season, since his £58m move from Southampton in 2023, after a seemingly endless series of ankle, thigh and hamstring problems.When Lavia looked to be limping towards the end of the first half of the win over Everton, there were fears of another issue, although he was able to play until mid-way through the second period before being rested.Maresca said: “You could see the difference he made, particularly playing through the lines.“I spent one entire season with Romeo at City, actually, so I know him very well.“Like with James, he is a top player. The only shame for us is that unfortunately we need to manage and protect them.“There’s no doubt that with Reece and Romeo, Chelsea are a better team. He is a unique player.“When he is fit he’s one of the best midfielders around because he can defend very well and attack as well and his passes between the lines are unbelievable.”Injury-hit Romeo Lavia returned against EvertonCredit: Getty More

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      European semi-finals set to take centre stage as Dream Team season reaches dramatic climax

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      DOUBLE Gameweeks are invaluable in the world of Dream Team.More fixtures equals more point-scoring opportunities and with the season reaching its dramatic climax, gaffers should endeavour to make the most of the precious few double Gameweeks remaining.Madueke, Rice and Solanke starred in the European quarter-finalsCredit: Dream TeamDream Team managers have been blessed by the fact FOUR English teams have reached the semi-final stage of the European competitions.Arsenal are set to take on PSG in a mouthwatering Champions League tie.Premier League stragglers Manchester United and Tottenham will face Athletic Bilbao and Bodo Glimt respectively in the Europa League.While Chelsea have to get past Djurgarden if they are to reach the Conference League final.The first legs of all these semi-finals will take place in Gameweek 33 with the second legs to follow in Gameweek 34 around the usual domestic action.Arteta oversaw a fantastic victory over Real MadridCredit: ReutersIn a perfect world, these match-ups would be more favourable.The Gunners were hugely impressive against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals but they will have to produce a pair of performances of equal quality (at least) if they are to eliminate Luis Enrique’s side – PSG are on the brink of an invincible Ligue 1 campaign.Declan Rice (£4.9m) leads the way for points among Arsenal players with Bukayo Saka (£6.4m), David Raya (£4.5m) and William Saliba (£4.3m) completing the top four.Most read in FootballHowever, it’s important to note that Mikel Arteta’s side will only double up in Gameweek 34 as they will not be in action this weekend.Only Mohamed Salah has more points than Bruno Fernandes this seasonCredit: AlamyDream Team bosses may be hesitant to back the Red Devils and Spurs given both clubs are among the most disappointing under-performers in the Premier League this season.Even so, these additional fixtures are too tempting to pass up.Plus, the likes of Bruno Fernandes (£7m), Pedro Porro (£4.9m), Alejandro Garnacho (£3.3m), Dejan Kulusevski (£4.1m) and others have provided plentiful points despite the broader weaknesses of the teams they represent.Predicting Arsenal, Spurs or Man United’s semi-final fortunes comes with risk but Chelsea have to be considered strong favourites to beat their Swedish opponents over two legs, hence why Cole Palmer (£5m) is currently the most popular recruit ahead of Gameweek 33 despite his dwindling form.Forest will also pull double duty this coming GameweekCredit: GettyIt’s worth noting that Nottingham Forest will also pull double duty in Gameweek 33.Nuno Espirito Santo’s side will face Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-finals this weekend before hosting Brentford in the league on Thursday night.UPCOMING DOUBLE HEADERSGAMEWEEK 33MANCHESTER UNITED v Bournemouth (a) & Athletic Bilbao (a)TOTTENHAM v Liverpool (a) & Bodo Glimt (h)CHELSEA v Everton (h) & Djurgarden (a)NOTTINGHAM FOREST v Man City (n) & Brentford (h)GAMEWEEK 34ARSENAL v Bournemouth (h) & PSG (a)MANCHESTER UNITED v Brentford (a) & Athletic Bilbao (h)TOTTENHAM v West Ham (a) & Bodo Glimt (a)CHELSEA v Liverpool (h) & Djurgarden (h)Read More on The SunDream Team bosses should endeavour to make the most of these additional fixtures.The deadline for Gameweek 33 is 11am this Saturday.Score PredictorPlay Score Predictor with Dream Team this season!FREE to play£250 weekly prizePredict scores of five selected Premier League fixtures and earn points for accuracyMost points wins weekly cash prizePLAY NOW More

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      Pop icon with £580MILLION net worth makes shock appearance at Stamford Bridge for Chelsea vs Legia Warsaw

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      POP icon Madonna was a surprise attendee of Chelsea’s Europa Conference League clash with Legia Warsaw.The Blues welcomed the Polish big boys to Stamford Bridge for the second leg of their quarter-final tie on Thursday night.Chelsea welcomed Legia Warsaw to Stamford Bridge for the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final tieCredit: GETTYPop superstar Madonna was a surprise attendee of the matchCredit: CBS SPORTSStamford Bridge wasn’t at full capacity for the game as Enzo Maresca’s troops had effectively killed off the tie with a 3-0 win in the first leg earlier this month.But the 29,027 Blues fans in attendance were joined by the music legend, 66.Cameras spotted the ‘Like a Virgin’ star – who has a net worth of £580million – in one of the Bridge’s swanky boxes during the second half.And the viewers were stunned to see the American icon at the match.READ MORE SPORTS NEWS One wrote on X: “Madonna is at the game.”Another said: “Why is Madonna watching Chelsea vs Legia Warsaw?”And another said: “Madonna in the house.”One remarked: “I can’t believe Chelsea is about to lose while Madonna is there watching.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSLegia Warsaw won the return leg 2-1 but lost the tie 4-2Credit: EPAAnother chimed in: “Never knew Madonna was a Chelsea fan.”Madonna – real name Madonna Louise Veronica Ciccone – saw the Blues suffer a 2-1 defeat on the night.Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca says it is up to fans to decide whether to back the teamBut it mattered little due to the west Londoners’ 3-0 advantage from the first leg, which saw them win the tie 4-2 on aggregate. More

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      Chelsea player ratings: Filip Jorgensen anxiety personified with Nkunku no better… but Cucurella shines once again

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      CHELSEA are Europa Conference League semi-finalists – but they made hard work of it at home to Legia Warsaw as they suffered defeat in the competition for the first time. It took just ten minutes for the deadlock to be broken when Filip Jorgensen brought down Tomas Pekhart inside the box – and the Czech forward slotted his penalty into the bottom right corner. Filip Jorgensen struggled between the sticks as Chelsea made hard work of Legia WarsawCredit: GettyThe goalkeeper gave the visitors the perfect start when he gave a penalty awayCredit: GettyMarc Cucurella settled any nerves by getting on the scoresheet againCredit: GettyWith Chelsea behind, they needed someone to step up and it was Marcos Alonso re-born who did so, in Marc Cucurella. The Spanish full-back converted a Jadon Sancho square ball to level the scoring, before being denied a second goal just moments later by the offside flag. If the Warsaw fans hadn’t already stolen the attention of everyone at Stamford Bridge by taking their shirts off, they certainly did so in the second half, when they lit flares in celebration of their side’s second goal. It was Steve Kapuadi who capitalised on more questionable Chelsea defending to put his side 2-1 up on the night and set the corner of the Shed End alight, much to the frustration of Enzo Maresca. The Chelsea fans had one more moment of temporary joy, when Tyrique George finished off a Noni Madueke ball across the box, only for the hosts to be denied by the offside flag once again. They’ll look to put this one behind them, but at least they’re into the semi-finals.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the players…Filip Jorgensen – 1Anxiety personified. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSGave away a penalty after just ten minutes which saw Legia Warsaw take the lead and give them belief that they could make a shock comeback at Stamford Bridge. The Dane in goal just looked completely void of confidence, missed multiple crosses and struggled all around. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca says it is up to fans to decide whether to back the teamAt least he’s decent at passing out the back *rolls eyes*…Josh Acheampong – 4Was caught on the ball on a few occasions, and didn’t look entirely comfortable in this one. He did still make some good blocks for his side though, with some important tackles too. A youngster who undeniably has a great amount of talent, this game will be a good learning experience for him. Tosin Adarabioyo – 4Tosin has been a leader at Stamford Bridge this season, and a key part in a lot of their good performances in this competition especially. Tonight however wasn’t his finest night, as he was caught out of position by the ball that led to the penalty. He didn’t have a real howler, but with two goals conceded it’s hard to give him higher than average. Benoit Badiashile – 4Not the performance he would’ve wanted in what was his 50th appearance for Chelsea. Was well advanced up the pitch for Legia Warsaw’s second goal, and left his defensive line vulnerable when the Polish side grabbed their second and eventual winner. Marc Cucurella – 8I am from here on re-naming Marc Cucurella El Pinguino, in honour of how often we are seeing his penguin celebration this season. He’s enjoying a fantastic season, and kept his name in the running for Chelsea’s player of the season with another goal in his most prolific campaign to date. A left-back one minute, and a centre-forward the next, he arrived late in the box once more to finish Sancho’s cross and equalise, before having a second goal disallowed for offside. The best player on the pitch in blue, again. Reece James (C) – 5Maresca’s insistence on playing Reece James in midfield continued tonight, after he was rested entirely in the draw with Ipswich. For my money, he is still best utilised in the right-back role where he is able to bomb forward and use his attacking prowess and strength to his advantage. Wasn’t bad in midfield by any means, but didn’t stamp his authority on the game as he has done previously. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 6Kept up a decent run of form in this competition with another solid performance tonight in midfield. KDH was comfortable in possession and looked after the ball, while also working hard off it to win possession for his side on a few occasions. Jadon Sancho – 7With a point to prove before the end of the season, Sancho was back on the right wing for Chelsea tonight after his wonder strike against Ipswich from the left-hand side of the box. He played a vital role in Chelsea’s equaliser, beating his man and squaring a perfect ball across the box for Cucurella to tap home. Worked really hard throughout, doing his defensive duties well too. Cole Palmer – 3If this game took place in the first half of the season, Cole Palmer would’ve had two goals in the opening five minutes…The curious case of Cole in 2025 is one that I have studied up close this year, and after being a shock starter in this game, it should have been the perfect chance for him to end his barren run. He picked up a knock early on, but still had chances and just cannot get the ball in the back of the net at the moment. He is really struggling out there right now, which is hard to see for a player with so much undeniable quality. It was another game without a goal or assist for Cole PalmerCredit: ReutersChristopher Nkunku – 2One of the most frustrating players I have seen in a Chelsea shirt. It is bizarre how a player can go from genuinely looking like a star destined for the heights of football for RB Leipzig, to so lacklustre in blue. The Frenchman has so, so much talent, but just doesn’t even look bothered about using it with the form he’s in at the moment – he looks worlds away from the player we saw in pre-season. If you gave most fans a choice between Nkunku and Timo Werner at the moment, they would probably choose the latter. Christopher Nkunku continues to struggle for the BluesCredit: GettyNicolas Jackson – 2Utterly toothless in the first half and didn’t even look like scoring when he was on the pitch. Was hooked at half-time and replaced by Tyrique George as Palmer moved into the striker position.This should have been a game for him to build his confidence after returning from injury, but if anything it would’ve done some damage to him in that aspect. SUBSTyrique George (for Jackson, HT) – 6George is surely deserving of another start in this competition by now. He was denied a goal by the offside flag, but looked generally better than most of his peers when he came on at half-time. He was a little hasty at times with the ball at his feet around the edge of the box, but you can’t blame him at least for trying to score. Malo Gusto (for Cucurella, 57) – 5Played in the pivot in midfield for the most part, alongside Reece James in an experiment that didn’t really work. Cucurella was far better when he was on the pitch but it was the right decision for Maresca to take him off in the grand scheme of things as they will need him for Fulham away at the weekend. Noni Madueke (for Palmer, 57) – 6Was easily Chelsea’s most threatening player after coming off the bench. Took plenty of shots, and should be applauded for that despite none of them hitting the back of the net tonight – at least he injected some energy into his side. Read More on The SunWas unfortunate not to get an assist as his run was slightly offside before he squared the ball for George who tapped into an empty net. Pedro Neto (for Sancho, 83) – 5Didn’t have enough time to make a real impact on the game, and didn’t have many touches at all. Enzo Maresca did not see the type of performance he wantedCredit: AFPLegia Warszawa’s fans certainly created an almighty atmosphere in the away endCredit: Getty More

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      Chelsea 1 Legia Warsaw 2 (agg 4-2): Enzo Maresca’s bafflingly strong XI stumbles into semi-final with embarrassing loss

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      ENZO MARESCA’S bid to win over the Chelsea fans went up in smoke.The Italian head coach packed his team to the hilt with A-List stars in an attempt to deliver a display of determination and re-energise Stamford Bridge after a series of turgid performances.Steve Kapuadi celebrates heading Legia’s winner on the nightCredit: RexTyrique George had a goal ruled out for the below-par BluesCredit: GettyLegia Warsaw fans let off flares while their team troubled ChelseaCredit: ReutersJadon Sancho put in a stellar performance – but was the only Chelsea star to do soCredit: AFPBut even though the Blues are through to the semi finals of the Conference League they were beaten on the night by the fifth best team in Poland.It marks their first home defeat of 2025 and the first in the main draw of UEFA’s C-List tournament – which Chelsea are expected to win comfortably.Plumes of smoke from flares ignited in the away end covered the pitch during the second half. But there was no hiding place for Maresca’s £1 billion squad as they were humbled.Even though they are comfortably into the last four on aggregate, the result has done nothing to ease the growing tension on the terraces from fans sometimes angry but mainly bored by Maresca’s tactics.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe sluggish tempo and tip toeing around their own box led to jeers from a crowd demanding more gusto – and not Malo the right back.Were it not for the constant throb of chanting from 1,000 shirtless Poles, the atmosphere inside Stamford Bridge would have been flat at best, angry at worst at another let down of an evening out.Maresca went for it with his line-up. Skipper Reece James, England star Cole Palmer, lead striker Nicolas Jackson, Euro 2024 winner Marc Cucurella. All included in the starting XI and nobody was quite sure whether it was for target practice ahead of Sunday’s trip to Fulham, or as punishment for last Sunday’s dismal showing against Ipswich.Most read in Europa LeagueChelsea boss Enzo Maresca didn’t look too pleased with what he sawCredit: GettyBlues’ keeper Filip Jorgensen let in Tomas Pekhart’s penalty openerCredit: APBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKBut while Chelsea are struggling for conviction in the Premier League, Europe is a different matter entirely.The level of opposition has enabled Maresca to make drastic rotations to his squad and mainly use his second string.Marc Cucurella made his Chelsea equaliser look easyCredit: GettyThat all changed last night with the more heavyweight line up. And it quickly became apparent that Maresca’s main driver was a bid to sharpen up his troops for the run in to the domestic season.After just a minute, Palmer was through one on one yet skewed his shot to the left of goal and should have done better.Four minutes later he missed again with a stooping header, although this was more the fault of team-mate Jadon Sancho for squaring the ball instead of shooting when within range of goal.And Chelsea’s problems this season were soon evident again in microcosm. Having been totally in charge for the opening ten minutes and created two chances, they fell behind.Warsaw’s first foray into the home area saw keeper Filip Jorgensen haul down midfielder forward Tomas Pekhart, with the Spanish ref awarding a penalty.The former Southampton player calmly thumped the ball into the back of the net from 12 yards.Away fans had a cracking night despite going out on aggregateCredit: GettyPekhart hails his 10th minute spot-kick breakthrough for LegiaCredit: PACucurella celebrated his goal with provider Jadon SanchoCredit: GettyWith Chelsea enjoying a commanding 3-0 first leg lead, there was no panic and even subdued celebrations from the boisterous visiting fans.Sancho finally threaded a perpendicular ball through in the 31st minute when he squared through the box for Cucurella to divert the ball in from seven yards out to get Chelsea back on level terms on the night.Yet there is something fragile about Maresca’s team – even his first choice one. And with the fans getting on the players’ backs like they did on Sunday, they wilted again.And that gifted Warsaw a golden chance to regain the lead eight minutes into the second half.From a corner, Chelsea failed to clear their lines and a rebounding shot into the danger area from Claud Goncalves found its way to the head of unmarked Steve Kapaudi to simply nod past Jorgensen.The goal was the cue for dozens of flares to light up the away end.Sub Noni Madueke injected some life on the flank and had a shot cleared off the line, fellow sub Tyrique George’s follow up squirmed under the keeper but was hooked off the line by goalscorer Kapaudi.Read More on The SunFor a while the pitch was shrouded in choking white mist, shrouding the action as Maresca’s team tried to up the ante against the grey clouds of frustration overhanging the home fans.When it cleared Chelsea were still labouring against far inferior opposition as they have done too often  this season in all competitions. More

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      Chelsea name 17-year-old son of former club chief in Conference League squad to face Legia Warsaw

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      ENZO MARESCA has named the 17-year-old son of a former club director in Chelsea’s Conference League squad for Thursday’s clash against Legia Warsaw.Landon Emenalo, son of Michael Emenalo, could get his first minutes in the Blues’ quarter-final second leg at Stamford Bridge.Landon Emenalo has been named to Chelsea’s squad to face Polish side Legia WarsawCredit: GettyThe teenage midfielder was invited to train with Enzo Maresca for the first time this weekCredit: GettyChelsea have one foot in the semi-finals after beating Legia 3-0 last weekThe Premier League side were dominant in the first leg in Poland, with a first senior goal from Tyrique George, 19, and a brace from Noni Madueke giving them a 3-0 lead.The Conference League has provided a chance for a number of youngsters to make their senior debuts for the club. As well as George, Shumaira Mheuka, 17, and Samuel Rak-Sakyi, 20, have seen nearly all of their minutes come in this competition.And Emenalo is the latest name in that list after being added to Chelsea’s first team squad for the first time ever.READ MORE ON CHELSEAThe teenage midfielder was invited to train with the first team this week for the first time and was registered with Uefa overnight.Emenalo is the son of former technical director and Nigeria international Michael Emenalo. Landon has impressed for the U18s this season, scoring once in 12 games.The youngster initially joined Chelsea through the Under-8s development centre.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford BridgeAlthough he spent time with Monaco, the defensive midfielder returned to Cobham during his Under-13s season.Emenalo signed his first professional contract with Chelsea after celebrating his 17th birthday in January. Inside Chelsea’s Strasbourg talent factory as angry fans fight identity crisis He was born in Arizona and has a US national mother that allows him the option of representing the United States or England.Landon, who was reportedly raised as a Chelsea fan, is highly thought of at Cobham.His dad Micheal played for clubs such as Notts County and San Jose Clash during his career before hanging up his boots to venture into coaching and board-level roles.The 59-year-old worked as a scout and assistant manager for Chelsea between 2007 and 2011, before taking the role as technical director for six years.During his time in SW6 he worked alongside managers such as Jose Mourinho and Carlo Ancelotti, while he was also part of the team that brought in players such as Kevin De Bruyne, N’Golo Kante and Eden Hazard.Since then he has held the same position at AS Monaco and is now the president of the league association for the Saudi Pro League.Chelsea ratings vs IpswichJADON SANCHO spared Chelsea’s blushes as Enzo Maresca’s side came from behind to draw against Ipswich.The relegation-threatened Tractor Boys went 2-0 up after 31 minutes with Chelsea flat throughout the first half.But Maresca’s men woke up after the break and fought back for what will still be a disappointing point as they chase a Champions League spot.So who were the shining lights for the Blues – and who had an afternoon to forget?Read Conor Jones’ ratings here to find out. More

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      Chelsea files: Blues ‘on a knife edge’ with club facing £70m black hole if poor form keeps them out of Champions League

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      CHELSEA’S stuttering bid to qualify for the Champions League may not impact Enzo Maresca’s role but it could wipe £70million off his summer budget.The Blues remain in the hunt for a top five finish but are convincing few that they will be able to get over the line.Chelsea could risk losing £70m if they fail to qualify for the Champions LeagueCredit: GettyEnzo Maresca’s job could also be at riskCredit: AlamyAnd another year away from Europe’s top table will come at quite the cost – with one financial expert saying they are on a “knife edge”.A run into the knockouts would – thanks to their coefficient ranking and gate receipts – net at least £90m for the west Londoners.But a year in the Europa League – which they are expected to qualify for via the league or winning the Conference League – would land them just £20m.And after having to sell hotels and the women’s team to the club’s holding company, BlueCo, in order to dance around the Premier League’s financial rules – things could get tricky.Chelsea’s latest financial results showed a profit of £129.6m, but Professor Rob Wilson, an academic lead at University Campus of Football Business, is concerned.He told SunSport: “Their reported profits are suggesting financial health, but the underlying losses basically indicate a reliance on accounting strategies.”You can’t trade on accounting strategies forever.”What you’re doing is essentially just putting off the inevitable, which is at some point you’re going to post a pretty significant loss or you’re going to have to have a big asset sale.”They are kind of protecting that with the longevity of the player contracts that they’ve been including.”They are properly on a knife edge in my view.”They are backing themselves or have already backed themselves into a pretty unmanageable corner.”Chelsea’s £115m ace Moises Caicedo has £160k Audi seized by cops after driving without valid licence near training groundKEEP KEPA?GOALKEEPING has been a hot topic at Chelsea this season and it’s not just restricted to those currently at the club.The future of Kepa Arrizabalaga is also of interest as his loan at Premier League side Bournemouth nears its end.The world’s most expensive keeper is desperate to stay on the South Coast to the extent that he would be willing to take a pay cut on his present wages of around £170,000 a week.Kepa, 30, has a year left on his contract at Chelsea but he knows there is no future for him at Stamford Bridge.Kepa Arrizabalaga is willing to accept a pay cut to stay at BournemouthCredit: AlamyEven though there are serious questions about the suitability of Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen, there are other keepers further up the pecking order.Even untried teenager Mike Penders seems to be more popular with Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca than Spaniard Kepa, who cost a whopping £71.6 million in 2018.Bournemouth are keen on a permanent deal and it’s believed one could be struck for around £25 million.Kepa has played the last 14 games in all competitions for Bournemouth and is close to manager and fellow Spaniard Andoni Iraola.There has been speculation that Bournemouth fancy Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher but Kepa is more likely to be the club’s number one next season.BLUECO NO-GODROPPING into the Europa League would not only pose financial problems, but a mammoth headache for Chelsea’s American owners.Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali will be forced to place their shares in Ligue 1 side Strasbourg into a “blind trust” if both qualify for the Europa League.Strasbourg’s involvement in the Europa League could be a huge issue for Chelsea if they fail to qualify for the Champions LeagueCredit: AFPStrasbourg, managed by Englishman Liam Rosenior, have been a BlueCo success story and are just a point off of the Europa League places in Ligue 1.While their qualification would be celebrated, it would cause an awful lot of admin for the owners.Manchester United owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe faced a similar problem.His company INEOS also owns Nice and Swiss side Lausanne-Sport.Their ownership of both has been placed into a blind trust, with Nice in the Europa League alongside Manchester United.Their both being in the same competition also saw UEFA block any transfers between the two – which put a stop to United’s move for defender Jean-Clair Todibo.Chelsea have sent a number of youth prospects on loan to Strasbourg since the two clubs were brought under the BlueCo umbrella.Kendry Paez, the Ecuadorian who will complete his move to Chelsea this summer, has been training with Rosenior’s side ahead of a possible loan move next season – which could be barred under these rules.SECURITY CONCERNSLEGIA WARSAW’S infamous ultras are on their way to London and the police are on high alert.Extra cops will be on duty for Thursday’s Conference League quarter-final second leg at Stamford Bridge.Legia Warsaw’s ultras caused chaos outside Villa Park in 2023Credit: GettyJust 1,000 fans of the Polish club are being allocated official tickets into the away section of the away end.Although with a sizeable Polish population in London already, there could be more in the home sections of the ground.Chelsea though are confident that their robust ticket policies will be enough to stop large scale infiltration by visiting supporters.Legia Warsaw have been dogged by controversy involving their fiery fans. They have been hit with travel bans.There was trouble in 2023 when the club played Aston Villa in the Conference League – several police officers were hurt in disturbances outside Villa Park.The Met won’t disclose details of their anti-hooligan policies but issued a statement to Sun Sport which read: “The Met works closely with partners to ensure the safety and security of those attending football matches in London. We want everyone to come and enjoy themselves but we will act decisively to deal with anyone intent on causing trouble.“We have increased the policing presence for Chelsea’s home match against Legia Warsaw this Thursday to ensure it takes place in a safe and secure environment. This decision was taken following a careful assessment of information and intelligence.”Warsaw have had their ticket allocation reduced on advice from the Safety Advisory Group and Chelsea.The statement continued: “We will continue to work with the club and our local partners to ensure the safety of those attending the match and those in the wider community.”NO PROBE FOR TODDDespite outraged Chelsea fans firing off a letter of complaint to the Premier League demanding a probe into the club chairman’s links to an unauthorised ticket resale site, the police won’t be knocking on Boehly’s door anytime soon.Supporters have openly protested about the fact the leading figure in the Stamford Bridge boardroom is cashing in with a 40 percent stake in Vivid Seats – a US-based outfit that passes on match tickets, often at vastly inflated prices.Todd Boehly has infuriated fans by earning money from Vivid Seats, a ticket resale siteCredit: ReutersThe Premier League is currently considering options on what to do about the tricky situation – after all on their own website they advise customers to exercise ‘extreme caution’ when dealing with companies like Vivid Seats.But any investigation is a long way off as so far, English football’s governing body will only confirm receipt of the letter from the Chelsea Supporters’ Trust.However, it is still a delicate state of affairs with the Premier League under pressure to investigate the business dealings of one of the game’s most high profile players.LEAGUE OF THEIR OWNCHELSEA Women’s final away game of the WSL season has been selected for live broadcast by the BBC.And a kick off time has now been finalised with The Blues heading to Tottenham on Sunday, May 4 and it gets underway at 2.15pm.NEW INITIATIVEANYONE attending Sunday’s home game against Ipswich will have noticed the large number of brightly coloured flags fluttering in The Shed End before kick off.The plan to liven up Stamford Bridge comes from fans’ group We Are The Shed, who are also masterminding the creation of a singing section in the famous stand.While it’s not exactly keeping the blue flag flying high, it’s good to see that some supporters are not just giving up on the fading atmospheres at Premier League grounds.Where English stadiums were once revered for their noise and sway, they are now silent tourist attractions. Keep up the good work.Chelsea Women vs Tottenham will be broadcast on the BBCCredit: Reuters More

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      How Premier League could boast ELEVEN teams in Europe next season with seven qualifying for Champions League

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      THE PREM could still have 11 teams in Europe next season – although it needs Aston Villa to pull off the mother of all Champions League comebacks to still be on.Arsenal’s quarter-final first-leg thrashing of Real Madrid last week confirmed that England will have a fifth Champions League place next term, for the first time.Aston Villa’s second leg against PSG will be integral for other Prem clubs and their European hopesCredit: EPAFulham and Brighton could still qualify for EuropeCredit: ReutersBut if Villa were to find a way of overhauling their 3-1 first-leg deficit when Paris Saint-Germain visit the West Midlands tomorrow and go on to lift the trophy in Munich next month, that would mean six Prem teams in the competition.That would even extend to SEVEN if either Tottenham or Manchester United can progress and win the Europa League.And there is the possibility of a further FOUR places on offer if Chelsea make their status as Conference League favourites count by adding that trophy to the club’s European haul.If the standings in the Prem table were not to change between now and the end of the season, the current top five of Liverpool, Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, Newcastle and Manchester City would all earn a passage directly into the initial stage of the Champions League.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLEnglish football also has three more guaranteed European slots, two in the Europa League plus one in the Conference League.But only one of those places, the second Europa League spot, would normally be awarded by a Prem finish, with the winners of the FA Cup and Carabao Cup respectively taking the automatic entries.However, a Wembley Final triumph for City or semi-final opponents Forest, or for Villa if they win the Champions League, will mean the place would revert to the Prem table.With Newcastle having won the Carabao Cup, their qualification for the Champions League would open the place in the third-tier competition.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSIf Chelsea win the Conference League AND qualify for Europe through their League position, England would have a maximum of 10 sides in continental action.However, if Enzo Maresca’s Blues blow up in the Prem but still win the Conference League it would open up the path for a remarkable English battalion next term.Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta will be missing four defensive starters for a mammoth Champions League quarter final That could see Europa League football for Fulham and Brighton, with Bournemouth squeezing into the Conference League. More