"Hopefully we can give them more chances" - Enzo Maresca lauds Chelsea attacker after 5-0 win against Morecambe 

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca praised the club’s young talent, particularly academy graduate, Tyrique George after a 5-0 victory over Morecambe. They beat the League Two side at Stamford Bridge in the FA Cup Third Round on Saturday to secure their place in the fourth round.

The 18-year-old winger shone with two assists and a lively performance on the left flank, impressing fans and his manager alike.

Maresca said: (via Chelsea's official website):

"Tyrique was good. He’s doing well for us and has already played in the Conference League. He’s very young, the same age as Josh Acheampong, but hopefully, we can give them more chances. They can become an important part of this team."

George's fearless display epitomized Chelsea’s professional approach to the match. Despite an initially frustrating first half, the Blues’ dominance eventually broke through, with a mix of experienced stars and young players contributing to the rout. Chelsea endured a challenging opening 39 minutes, with Morecambe goalkeeper Harry Burgoyne saving Christopher Nkunku’s penalty to keep the game goalless.

However, a stroke of luck turned the tide when Tosin Adarabioyo’s (39') speculative long-range effort deflected past Burgoyne to give Chelsea the lead. Nkunku quickly made amends for his earlier miss, scoring five minutes into the second half to double the advantage. From there, Maresca's men never looked back.

Tosin, who had an exceptional outing, produced one of the standout moments of the match. He scored a stunning 25-yard strike into the top corner for Chelsea’s third goal in the 70th minute.

The Blues' dominance was cemented in the closing stages as Joao Felix netted twice in three minutes, showcasing his clinical finishing to complete the 5-0 scoreline.

Maresca emphasized the importance of maintaining professionalism and focus in such matches, saying:

"These types of games are about showing how serious and professional you are, and once again, the players showed that."

The FA Cup Fourth Round draw will take place on Sunday, January 12.

---

Enzo Maresca reveals why Chelsea captain Reece James was taken off at the half-time mark

Enzo Maresca has clarified why captain Reece James was substituted at half-time during the Blues' emphatic 5-0 FA Cup third-round victory over Morecambe. The decision, Maresca revealed, was part of a pre-planned strategy to carefully manage James’ return to full fitness.

The right-back, who has been plagued by injuries this season, has made just five appearances so far.

Maresca emphasized the importance of gradually increasing James’ workload to ensure his availability for the rest of the season. He said (via GOAL):

"For him and Romeo Lavia, it was just to protect them. The idea was to play 45 minutes. Hopefully, we can start from there and build some physical condition to be with us for the rest of the season. Especially with Reece, we have to be a little bit more careful."

Maresca also expressed satisfaction with how both players finished their 45-minute outings, describing it as a positive step toward their full recovery.

James' return could be pivotal for Chelsea, who have had to adapt at right-back this season, utilizing Moises Caicedo, Axel Disasi, and Malo Gusto in the role. A fully fit James offers stability and quality. He could significantly boost the west London outfit's fortunes in the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Europa Conference League campaigns.