Chelsea make the trip to Kazakhstan to face FC Astana in the Conference League on Thursday night. Enzo Maresca's side are on the verge of mathematically ensuring they progress into the last-16 of the competition and one step closer to May's final in Poland.

Maresca confirmed that young full-back Josh Acheampong will be among the academy graduates involved and is expected to start, bringing to an end his near-three-month exile over a contract dispute. Chelsea have confirmed a young squad has made the long journey as Maresca’s rotation policy continues.

Chelsea will likely rotate once more for their UEFA Conference League visit to Kazakhstan's Astana, with a win needed to secure a knockout place.

Teenager Josh Acheampong is likely to start tomorrow with Maresca revealing the highly rated defender is close to agreeing a new contract following a stand-off that reportedly saw him frozen out.

Astana vs Chelsea is scheduled for 3:30pm BST kick-off on Thursday, December 12, 2024. The match will take place at the Almaty Ortalyk Stadium, as the hosts’ main stadium is undergoing renovation. TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live on TNT Sports.

Chelsea face a unique challenge in their UEFA Conference League match against Astana. Find out why the game kicks off so early and how the freezing conditions will impact the players.

Chelsea will play in freezing cold conditions and rotation will be seen in the Blues squad as Maresca looks to navigate the busy festive period and ensure all of his team are ready to play when called upon.