Enzo Maresca reiterates stance on Chelsea's title credentials in press conference ahead of Fulham clash

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has made his stance clear on whether his side are in a title race as they prepare to face Fulham on Boxing Day. The Blues return to action after being held to a goalless draw by Everton on Sunday and are now four points behind leaders Liverpool.

Former Leicester City boss Maresca is enjoying an excellent season in charge of the Blues, having taken over at the club in the summer. He appears to have galvanized the young squad, pushing them towards the summit of the league while keeping them grounded.

Maresca and his players have maintained that they are not in a title race and instead just want to continue winning games. The Italian tactician reiterated this message when he spoke to the media ahead of the London derby against Fulham.

“We are not in a title race and it’s not about the pressure for the players, club or me. For me it's the reality. We're ahead of our expectations in terms of the way we are playing and points. I hope one day soon we’ll have the title race pressure!” Maresca said.

Enzo Maresca's side being second on the log is no fluke, as they have shown their ability to mix it with the best sides in the league. They have tasted defeat just twice, on opening day against Manchester City, and a narrow 2-1 loss at Liverpool in October.

Chelsea dropped points for the first time in nine games at Goodison Park on Sunday, with Everton ending the Blues' eight-match winning run. The Toffees also became only the second side after Manchester City on opening day to prevent them from scoring in the league this season.

Chelsea to be without key midfielder for Fulham clash

Chelsea will be without midfielder Romeo Lavia for their Premier League derby against Fulham on Boxing Day. The Belgian midfielder picked up a hamstring injury in the win over Tottenham Hotspur on December 8.

Enzo Maresca said in his press conference that the midfielder will miss at least one more game. The coach stated that the former Southampton man is already back on the grass but cannot play on Thursday.

"Romeo is still recovering. He's much, much better. He's already working on the pitch but unfortunately he's not ready [for Fulham]. [It's] the same situation [for the others]," Maresca said.

Chelsea remain without the trio of Benoit Badiashile, Wesley Fofana, and Reece James at the back. Also, forward Mykhailo Mudryk remains suspended pending the conclusion of his doping investigation.