Maresca to give missing stars tactical homework

ENZO MARESCA does not officially start work at Chelsea until July 1, but he is already helping to refine their pre-season plans.

- Nick Purewal

The Italian, who yesterday signed a five-year deal to take over at Stamford Bridge, wants to be in a position to get straight onto the grass with his new players.

Maresca knows pre-season will be crucial as he bids to implement his ideas on the squad.

But he will have just three weeks to work with the players at Cobham before Chelsea set off for a two-week tour of the United States, so knows it will be important to hit the ground running.

There is confidence his preferred 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1 formations will fit well with the Chelsea squad.