Chelsea should have little trouble reaching the fourth round of the FA Cup on Saturday afternoon when they host League Two side Morecambe.
The fourth-tier outfit currently sit in 23rd place halfway through the season and could be subject to a heavy defeat at Stamford Bridge. Their last and only trip to face Chelsea ended in a 4-0 defeat during the 2020/21 FA Cup third round.
Enzo Maresca will use this weekend's game as an opportunity to rest and rotate, with Chelsea's second XI more than capable of obliterating Morecambe. The Italian is likely to field a similar formation to the one he used in the Conference League, with the likes of Marc Guiu, Tyrique George and Josh Acheampong among the youngsters who could get further opportunities.
Here's how Chelsea can line up.
GK: Filip Jorgensen – Robert Sanchez remains first choice despite some poor performances this season, with Jorgensen largely limited to cup appearances. The summer signing will host a quiet afternoon against Morecambe.
RB: Josh Acheampong – Acheampong featured at centre-back against Crystal Palace and impressed during the 1-1 draw. He is likely to feature again this weekend and could play in the preferred right-back role.
CB: Axel Disasi – The French defender has rarely put the Chelsea supporters at ease since arriving in England and Acheampong was preferred by him at centre-back last time out. Disasi does not appear to have a long-term future under Maresca.
CB: Tosin Adarabioyo – The former Fulham centre-back hasn't made the most convincing start since moving to west London, but he should be given the start as Chelsea turn around. Injuries to Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana only increase his chances of playing.
LB: Renato Veiga – Veiga's versatility has come in handy this season and the 21-year-old is likely to be used on the left-back as Ben Chilwell looks to set up a January move.
DM: Sam Rak-Sakyi – The young midfielder has now made a handful of appearances in the Conference League and the potential absence of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall could hand him a second start for the Blues.
DM: Romeo Lavia – With a January outing on the cards for Cesare CasadeiLavia could start at the base of midfield if only to ensure Chelsea get into a comfortable position.
RW: Noni Madueke – Pedro Neto started against Palace after Madueke was dropped to the bench. The Englishman has been hit and miss this season but will relish the prospect of punishing a leaky defense in League Two.
AM: Christopher Nkunku – Nkunku did not make a significant impact against Ipswich Town in his last Premier League start and Nicolas Jackson remains ahead of him in the standings. A good chance here to show Maresca that he has what it takes to play as a number 10.
LW: Tyrique George – The 18-year-old has been used lightly in Europe and has started three of the last four Conference League outings.
ST: Marc Guiu – Having impressed in his cup appearances, Guiu will be given another chance to lead the Chelsea line. The imposing young striker has scored six in 11 games for the Blues.