Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca opted not to include Ben Chilwell in the squad for the Blues’ FA Cup third-round victory over Morecambe, citing the England defender’s potential January departure as the reason.

Following Chelsea’s 5-0 triumph at Stamford Bridge, Maresca explained his decision: “Chilwell is thinking he’s going to leave, it’s better to avoid using him to avoid injury.”

Chilwell, who has played just 45 minutes this season, was joined by Cesare Casadei and Carney Chukwuemeka in being omitted from the matchday squad. Both midfielders are also linked with potential exits.

Maresca added, “Cesare will not be in the squad, same situation as Chilwell. It’s best in this moment not to allow him to play in case there’s opportunity for him to leave.”

While Casadei has drawn concrete interest, particularly from Italian clubs, the future destinations of Chilwell and Chukwuemeka remain uncertain.