Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Bradley has hailed Chelsea as the team to beat ahead of their Europa Conference League clash tonight.

The former Chelsea youth player is relishing the opportunity to face one of Europe’s most in-form sides but remains determined to push his team to deliver a strong performance.

“You have to be excited and nervous before games like this,” Bradley admitted during his pre-match press conference. “That’s all healthy. It keeps you on edge, keeps you sharp.”

Bradley emphasised the significance of such high-profile fixtures for his team. “Give me this game over a game in front of 50 people, that means nothing, and no one will have any interest,” he said. “This is why we’re involved in the game, why our players work so hard. You get to test yourself against probably the most in-form team in Europe right now.”

The Shamrock Rovers boss also expressed admiration for Chelsea’s style of play under their current manager. “You have to enjoy watching a team like Chelsea play this year. They’ve a mix of power, pace, a clear identity in what they’re doing, a real energy in the team,” Bradley explained.

“It’s been a real joy to watch them since the manager has come in. We’ve got to look and try and learn from these teams.”