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Chelsea predicted XI vs Legia Warsaw as Enzo Maresca hands youngster his first ever Blues appearance

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Enzo Maresca will have the rare opportunity to safely rest a number of his key players when his Chelsea side return to European action on Thursday night against Legia Warsaw.

The Blues will be taking a commanding lead into the game at Stamford Bridge after winning their Conference League quarter-final first leg 3-0 against their Polish opposition.

The game was marked by Tyrique George’s first Chelsea goal, as well as Noni Madueke making his mark off the bench by scoring twice in the second half.

The likes of Cole Palmer, Enzo Fernandez and Reece James are all likely going to be handed the night off ahead of a big Premier League game against Fulham.

Maresca could turn to the academy, and The Chelsea Chronicle have predicted the side that will take part in the quarter-final second leg at Stamford Bridge.

Enzo Maresca, Manager of Chelsea seen during the UEFA
Photo by Marek Antoni Iwaczuk/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

Chelsea Predicted XI vs Legia Warsaw

Filip Jorgensen

Maresca has made it pretty clear that Filip Jorgensen is his Premier League number two right now, however he therefore gets the chance between the sticks on Thursday.

Josh Acheampong

Josh Acheampong was admired by Maresca for his appearance in the first leg of this tie, however came in for no minutes against Ipswich Town. He will start as the versatile right-back.

Tosin Adarabioyo

A half-time sub in his last two games, Tosin Adarabioyo will be hoping he can play the full 90 minutes and help his side move into the semi-finals of the competition in the process.

Benoit Badiashile

Benoit Badiashile will continue to rebuild his match fitness with another appearance in Europe, as he still sits behind Levi Colwill in the pecking order for left centre-back.

Brighton & Hove Albion v Chelsea - Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round
Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Ishe Samuels-Smith

Ishe Samuels-Smith has signed a new deal with the club to commit his long-term future to the Blues, and will be rewarded with his senior debut against Legia.

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall

One of the constants of the Conference League campaign so far, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall will be looking to keep up his good form in rare opportunities of late.

Moises Caicedo

One of Chelsea’s most important players, expect Moises Caicedo to keep things ticking over in midfield for around 45 minutes before he is likely replaced for either James or Fernandez.

Tyrique George

Surely one of the first names on the Conference League teamsheet, however Tyrique George is still struggling to convince his manager to reward him with meaningful Premier League minutes.

Christopher Nkunku

Things have been going from bad to worse for Christopher Nkunku this season, despite his really strong start in this competition in particular. He will be hoping to avenge his missed penalty in the first leg.

Jadon Sancho

The Chelsea loanee is continuing to push to prove the Blues should sign him on a permanent deal, and Jadon Sancho’s two assists in the first leg will see him start again.

Shumaira Mheuka

Shumaira Mheuka has been given a handful of minutes this season, however will get a chance to make up for his underwhelming first start for the club against Copenhagen.