SHEDDING IT UP
Chelsea’s Conference League clash with Servette descends into chaos as away fans clash with police at Stamford Bridge
Batons were raised by police and Chelsea game not on TV
CHELSEA's tie against Servette descended into chaos before it even started as away fans clashed with police outside Stamford Bridge.
Thousands of Swiss supporters travelled to West London for the Uefa Conference League play-off tie.
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A group of Servette fans were being penned by stewards outside the stadium before being allowed into the Shed End.
But the visitors seemed to grow impatient with the hold up and began breaking through the line of stewards.
Police were forced to intervene as forces held the supporters back.
At least one officer had their baton raised, before reinforcements were called half-an-hour before kick-off.
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However, it soon quietened down as fans were slowly allowed inside the Bridge to watch their side take on Premier League opposition - as the hosts ran out 2-0 winners through goals from Christopher Nkunku and Noni Madueke.
Several high-profile players are absent from the bloated 43-man Chelsea roster.
As expected, Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell were not included and Kepa Arrizabalaga, Trevoh Chalobah and Armando Broja are also left out as they continue to be linked with exits.
Chelsea have to qualify for the new Conference League format by getting past Servette - who finished third in their domestic campaign last season.
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The Blues thought they had managed Europa League qualification, but were pushed out of the competition when Manchester United lifted the FA Cup and took their spot.
Chelsea fans were not able to flick their TVs on to watch Enzo Maresca and Co take on Servette.
Enzo Maresca comments on the futures of Ben Chilwell and Raheem Sterling at Chelsea and comments on player contract lengths
That's because there were no British TV rights for the playoff stage of the Europa League and the Conference League.
Maresca made nine changes to his Chelsea side that lost 2-0 to Manchester City in their Prem opener.
Tosin Adarabioyo and Filip Jorgensen played their first games for the club.
While Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Pedro Neto, Marc Guiu and Renato Veiga all received their full debuts.
Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile and Mykhailo Mudryk were the other fresh faces, with Moises Caicedo and Christopher Nkunku retaining their spots from Sunday's loss to Manchester City.
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Ilkay Gundogan is closing in on a stunning return to Manchester City.
Meanwhile, Raheem Sterling is set to leave Chelsea this summer as the winger is not a part of Enzo Maresca's plans.
Elsewhere, Liverpool are reportedly closing in on the £29.9m signing of Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
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