ENZO MUST AVOID n A EURO CALAMITY

Playing among elite is ultimate goal for Stamford Bridge hierarchy

- Michael Ham

CHRIS SUTTON believes that missing out on Champions League football next season would be seen as a "disaster" in the corridors of power at Stamford Bridge.

Enzo Maresca's Blues face Fulham today on the back of Thursday night's disappointing 2-1 loss to Legia Warsaw, which still saw them through to the semi-finals of the UEFA Conference League by an aggregate score of 4-2.

But even winning that competition - they play Swedish outfit Djurgarden in the semis - won't be enough to secure a place at Europe's top table next season.

Lifting the trophy on May 28 merely secures a spot in the Europa League.

So Maresca & Co will have to reach the Champions League through their Premier League finish.