Enzo Maresca has leapt to the defence of Alejandro Garnacho after the winger’s difficult full debut in Chelsea’s 2-1 Carabao Cup victory over Lincoln City.

The 21-year-old, signed from Manchester United for £40 million this summer, was handed his first start but endured a frustrating evening.

Garnacho struggled to make an impact in the attacking third and was withdrawn after 59 minutes, with sections of the Stamford Bridge crowd voicing their displeasure.

Despite the boos, Maresca insisted Garnacho and fellow youngster Jamie Gittens should be praised for their efforts in what was a tricky contest. The Chelsea boss admitted he had been disappointed with the team’s sluggish first half display but singled out the new signing’s commitment.

Maresca said at full-time: “Absolutely. It was not an easy game. That’s why I was upset first half because we know we need to do better.

“But overall, him [Garnacho], [Jamie] Gittens, they did very well.”