Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has issued a cautious warning ahead of the Blues’ upcoming EFL Cup clash with League One side Lincoln City.

When asked if the game would be an opportunity to give academy prospects a chance, Maresca admitted he is wary of the dangers such fixtures bring.

Maresca said: “Even if these are the games that worry me most, because you can slip very easily in these kinds of games.”

Cup ties against lower-league opposition have a long history of delivering surprises, and Maresca was keen to stress that Chelsea must not underestimate Lincoln.

“Football is full of these kinds of games and I am very worried about that,” added Maresca.

Despite his concern, the Chelsea boss confirmed that academy players will be involved as part of his wider squad planning. The Blues have consistently handed opportunities to youngsters this season, and that trend is set to continue at Stamford Bridge.

Maresca concluded: “But for sure, we have probably a few players from the academy, like we always have done.”