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Chelsea welcomes League Two strugglers Morecambe to Stamford Bridge as it bids to add to its FA Cup collection. The Blues have enjoyed a fine first half of the campaign under Enzo Maresca but results have dipped in recent weeks.
Maresca’s side had failed to win any of their last four matches over the festive period in the Premier League, including the 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace last time out. That has almost put to bed any faint title talk at Stamford Bridge.
But with his side favorites to win the Europa Conference League, the Chelsea boss will also be expecting an FA Cup run this season.
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Chelsea last lifted the trophy back in 2018 by beating Manchester United in the final at Wembley. Since then, it has been beaten three times in the final, including on penalties by Liverpool in 2022.
The home side is clear favorites to secure a place in the fourth round draw, with Morecambe struggling at the wrong end of the fourth tier. Here is all you need to know ahead of the encounter.
How to watch the game
Chelsea’s FA Cup tie against Morecambe is scheduled for a 3pm kick-off at Stamford Bridge. That means fans in the States don’t need to get up too early, with a 10am start (ET).
It has not been chosen for live TV coverage in the UK with fans able to catch the highlights on BBC iPlayer and ITV X. Chelsea supporters in the U.S. will be able to stream the action on ESPN+.
Team news
Maresca is likely to rotate his players for the match with a similar side expected, to the one that features in Europe on a regular basis. That could include the likes of Christopher Nkunku, Joao Felix and Marc Guiu.
Skipper Reece James could also get a run out after his injury problems, but Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile and Mykhailo Mudryk will be out.
Morecambe has been boosted by the news that Liverpool loanee Rhys Williams has extended his spell with the club until the end of the season.