Maresca Expects Blues Improvement

Manager says Chelsea, who started season with a stalemate, will get better with time

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LONDON - Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca believes his team will gradually get to 100 per cent, as he prepares for their English Premier League clash at London rivals West Ham United on Aug 22.

Both teams are looking to set the tone early in the campaign, but they come into this match with contrasting fortunes from their opening fixtures, promising a fiercely contested encounter.

Chelsea started the season last weekend with a 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace.

But despite the stalemate, the Blues showcased their slick, possession-based style and key midfielders like Cole Palmer and Moises Caicedo are likely to dictate play more often, once they get into gear.

"Tough game. All the Premier League games are difficult," said Maresca, 45, of West Ham.

"If you remember, the game at home last season was a different game for us (the Blues won 2-1). They defended very well - I expect exactly the same.

"But for sure, with more time we will be better and better. We need to adapt.

"We compete until the end and create chances. We will get better and better day after day."

Following the Aug 17 draw, Maresca will be looking for more positives and the Italian will be boosted by young attackers Joao Pedro, Estevao Willian, and Liam Delap.