Charlton Athletic Prepares for FA Cup Clash Against Chelsea

Charlton Athletic Prepares for FA Cup Clash Against Chelsea

Charlton Athletic Prepares for FA Cup Clash Against Chelsea

Charlton Athletic manager Nathan Jones emphasized the importance of ensuring that their FA Cup third round match against Chelsea does not turn into an "autograph session" as they face the Blues for the first time since 2007.

The Addicks will host Chelsea at The Valley on Saturday at 20:00 GMT, marking Liam Rosenior's debut as head coach since taking over at Stamford Bridge.

Despite Chelsea's struggles, having won only two of their last eleven matches across all competitions, Charlton is also seeking to break a four-match winless streak.

Charlton has not progressed beyond the third round of the FA Cup since the 2013-14 season, when they reached the quarter-finals before being eliminated by Sheffield United.

"You start at the third round when you’re in the Championship, and you have the opportunity to get a big match, which is always nice because it’s a test. It’s not just about wanting to high-five Liam Delap or anyone else," Jones told BBC Radio London.

"What we need to ensure is that it doesn’t turn into merely an autograph session. It should be a genuine game where we can evaluate ourselves, our structure, and our performance."

Chelsea's New Boss Rosenior: A 'Confident and Thoughtful Leader'

Rosenior was appointed as Chelsea's head coach on Tuesday and was present in the stands alongside co-owner Behdad Eghbali during the team's 2-1 defeat to Fulham on Wednesday, with Calum McFarlane temporarily managing the squad.

Jones, who previously worked as a coach at Brighton & Hove Albion while Rosenior played there, described the new Chelsea manager as confident, articulate, and a thoughtful leader.

"I saw him last night, and we had a brief conversation. I have no idea what impact he will have on them mentally or physically," Jones remarked.

"Tactically and technically, they will likely remain similar, which is one of the main reasons for his appointment. There is an alignment with their previous approach, and that’s positive. But will they work harder? I'm not sure. Can we work harder? We’ll find out."

'These Are the Games You Want to Be Involved In'

Chelsea, an eight-time FA Cup winner, has been runners-up three times since last clinching the trophy in 2018.

Their most recent final appearance at Wembley was under Thomas Tuchel in the 2021-22 season, where they lost to Liverpool in a penalty shootout after a goalless match.

"These are the matches you want to be part of," Jones stated. "I have aspired all my life to be on a Premier League team sheet in some capacity, and that’s our goal. It’s the pinnacle. This league is the best in the world, so facing a fantastic team like Chelsea is what we aim for. You want to challenge yourself against great managers, strong structures, and talented players."

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