With a whole host of Chelsea first team stars away representing their countries on international duty, a number of fringe players are getting their chance to impress.
Enzo Maresca will be keeping a close eye on those who have remained at Cobham, who are no doubt looking to break into the first team on a more regular basis.
Some of those are likely to get their opportunities sooner than others. Tosin Adarabioyo is in line for a start in the next Premier League game after a suspension for Wesley Fofana.
The lack of first teamers in the building also opens up the chance for some of the impressive youngsters at the club to show what they can do at the top level too.
A whole host of academy players have been seen working at Cobham this week, with one who may have been forgotten by some in Alex Matos.
Alex Matos in Chelsea first team training
The midfielder featured in some matchday squads under Mauricio Pochettino, with the Argentine describing him as ‘talented’.
As seen on the 5th Stand app, he was one of those in action amongst the likes of Jadon Sancho and Romeo Lavia.
Matos unable to secure summer move
It was reported during the summer transfer window that Matos was closing in on a loan move away from the club, with him seemingly not in Maresca’s plans for the season.
This didn’t materialise though, and he has been unable to really build on what was a quietly impressive spell at Huddersfield last season.
A couple of youngsters do find themselves a bit closer to first team action, with a number of them being utilised in the cup competitions so far this season.
The likes of Josh Acheampong and Tyrique George have been given sporadic chances, although normally when the result of the game is beyond doubt.
It remains to be seen whether anyone makes a lasting impression this week on the boss to be factored into future plans.
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