Enzo Maresca faces task to lift Chelsea mood and win over

Majority of players remain unhappy Mauricio Pochettino leftChelsea to beat Newcastle to signing of Tosin Adarabioyo

One of Enzo Maresca’s biggest tasks as Chelsea’s new head coach will be to lift the mood in the dressing room and win over a section of senior players left questioning the club’s direction after the departure of Mauricio Pochettino.

Chelsea are expected to announce the appointment of Maresca early this week and are confident he will thrive in their structure. It is a sign of their belief in the Italian and their determination to back him that they have given the 44-year-old a five-year deal, with the option of an extra year.