Players of Chelsea prepare to enter a huddle prior to the Premier League match between Chelsea and Manchester City. (Image: Getty Images)
Chelsea are set to host the relatively unknown Servette at Stamford Bridge for the first leg of their Europa Conference League play-off tonight (Thursday).
Following last weekend’s 2-0 home defeat to Manchester City, Blues manager Enzo Maresca is anticipated to make significant changes against the Swiss side, who secured third place in their domestic league and clinched their national cup competition last season.
Servette were defeated by Portuguese team Braga in the Europa League qualifiers, while Chelsea found themselves in UEFA’s third tier thanks to Manchester United’s FA Cup victory. Teams must secure their place in the new league stage through a two-legged play-off.
While it should be a straightforward win for Chelsea, Maresca will be keen to avoid any further embarrassment, particularly considering the numerous controversies surrounding their transfer dealings. Here’s all the essential information you need ahead of the match.
What time does the match kick-off?
Due to matches taking place across Europe on Thursday evening, kick-off times have been staggered over a three-hour period, starting at 5pm UK time. Chelsea’s match will be one of the final four fixtures to commence at 8pm.
Raheem Sterling is unlikely to feature for Chelsea. (Image: Getty)
Where can I watch Chelsea vs Servette?
Despite TNT Sports holding the rights to European football, their agreement doesn’t cover the play-off stage of both the Europa League and Europa Conference League, unlike the Champions League. Consequently, the match won’t be televised in the UK.
Chelsea supporters can still catch the action for a mere £4.99. The club has capitalised on the absence of broadcasting rights to live stream the match on their official website and app.
This offer is accessible to fans globally. The fee will provide access to both legs of the play-off, while highlights will be available free of charge from midnight.
Match odds
As anticipated, the hosts are strong favourites. They’re best priced at 2/15 for victory, with a draw 8/1 at various bookies.
As underdogs, Servette can be backed at 12/1, 14/1, 16/1 or even as high as 20/1.
Source: https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1939380/Chelsea-Servette-TV-time-channel-how-to-watch