It’s FA Cup action up next for Chelsea as they host League Two strugglers Morecambe at Stamford Bridge on Saturday in the third round of the competition. The Blues secured a 4-0 victory the last time these two sides met, three years ago in the same round. Here are the key things to watch for:
1. Return of Reece James and Romeo Lavia
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca confirmed that Reece James and Romeo Lavia are fit to feature after their recent injury setbacks. James’s quality has been sorely missed, especially considering Malo Gusto’s poor form. Maresca’s decision to experiment with Axel Disasi at right-back, despite ample evidence against the idea, added to fan frustrations. Despite high praise for talented Cobham graduate Josh Acheampong, he was not utilized until the last match against Crystal Palace.
James’s injury history is well-documented, and Maresca will need to carefully manage his minutes moving forward. Acheampong could be a valuable alternative, particularly when Gusto is out of form or James requires rest.
Romeo Lavia’s return provides another midfield option for Maresca. The lack of trust shown toward players like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Renato Veiga, Cesare Casadei, or academy prospect Samuel Rak-Sakyi meant Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández have been overworked in recent months. Like James, Lavia’s injury troubles necessitate cautious minute management, but his availability is undoubtedly a boost for Chelsea.
2. Impact of the Midweek Fixture Against Bournemouth
Following the FA Cup tie, Chelsea will face Bournemouth in a crucial Premier League fixture at Stamford Bridge. The Cherries sit seventh in the table and are unbeaten in their last eight matches. Meanwhile, Chelsea, winless in their recent four games, will be eager to turn their fortunes around on Wednesday.
Enzo Maresca is likely to rest key players tomorrow to ensure they are fresh for midweek action. Last week marked a rare break from midweek fixtures, allowing the players much-needed recovery time. By Wednesday, those rested for the FA Cup match will have had nearly ten days without action, a vital interval at this point of the season.
A lineup similar to those used in UEFA Conference League ties can be expected against Morecambe. However, the uncertain futures of players like Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Cesare Casadei, and Carney Chukwuemeka could influence Maresca’s selection choices.
3. Minutes for Academy Players
The FA Cup third round, particularly against lower-league opposition, is traditionally an opportunity for academy players to showcase their talent. However, Maresca’s reluctance to rotate the squad suggests these opportunities may be limited. Several players saw little to no game time during the December fixtures, and Maresca cannot afford to overlook them again in this tie.
For Chelsea to remain competitive across all competitions, Maresca must utilize the entire squad. Over-reliance on 11–14 players has seen the team slip from being in the title mix to battling for a top-four spot. This trend should serve as a wake-up call. While the FA Cup tie offers a chance to start fresh, Maresca must find a balance between giving Cobham graduates minutes and ensuring experienced players remain sharp.