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Lincoln vs Chelsea Carabao Cup Preview

Chelsea travel to the LNER Stadium tonight knowing that progress in the Carabao Cup is more than a fixture obligation, it is an urgent requirement. Three games without victory have left Enzo Maresca searching for momentum, and the visit to Lincoln comes at a time when the Blues must reassert their authority.

Chelsea under pressure

Enzo Maresca’s men arrive with bruises from successive defeats, falling to Bayern Munich in their Champions League opener and then undone by an early Robert Sanchez red card that helped condemn them to another loss at Old Trafford. That followed a breathless draw with Brentford, leaving Chelsea desperate for a performance that can bring the first win of September.

Cole Palmer remains a major doubt, the England forward continues to nurse a groin injury that has hampered him all season. Sanchez is also unavailable, which may hand opportunities to Alejandro Garnacho or Jamie Gittens, two players eager to show their worth in senior competition.

Photo IMAGO

Lincoln’s momentum

For Lincoln, this tie represents both opportunity and reward. Michael Skubala’s side have built a remarkable 10-game unbeaten run, and the League One club’s only defeat this season came weeks ago. Having beaten Harrogate 3-1 and Burton Albion 1-0, the Imps fully deserve their place in the third round.

Facing the reigning Club World Cup champions is daunting, yet Lincoln will not approach timidly. Confidence is high and the belief is growing that they can become the latest lower-division side to down a Premier League giant in this competition.

Where to watch

TV channel: The game will be televised live on Sky Sports Football for UK viewers, with coverage beginning at 7:40pm BST ahead of a 7:45pm kick-off.

Live stream: Sky Sports subscribers can catch the contest live online, via the Sky Go app.

Free highlights: The Sky Sports app and Sky Sports Football YouTube channel should show highlights after the match.

Need a VPN to watch the match? Our preferred VPN to watch UK TV from anywhere is LibertyShield.com – they offer a 48 hour no-obligation free trial and have apps or all popular devices including Mac, Windows, FireTV, iPhone/iPad and Android.