Conference league opener

Chelsea return to Europe in the Conference League on Thursday with a match against Belgian club Gent at Stamford Bridge. The Blues are strong favourites to win Uefa’s third-tier competition – having not played in Europe whatsoever last season. Asked whether they were aware Chelsea could become the first team in Europe to add a Conference League title to previous Champions League and Europa League successes, boss Enzo Maresca said: “We are. But we are happy and excited about tomorrow’s game.” Defender Reece James remains the only player out injured as the Italian manager is expected to make a large…