Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has praised Alejandro Garnacho for his display in the Blues’ 2-1 Carabao Cup victory over Lincoln City on Tuesday night, despite the Argentine being substituted just before the hour mark.
The third-round tie at Sincil Bank was billed as an “unforgettable occasion” for Chelsea, who returned to League Cup action following a difficult few days. Maresca’s side had been booed off at half-time by travelling supporters after a sluggish opening 45 minutes in which they conceded the opening goal to the League One outfit.
In response to Saturday’s disappointing defeat to Manchester United, Maresca opted for a fairly strong starting XI, with Enzo Fernandez captaining the side. Garnacho, who had been an unused substitute at Old Trafford, was handed his first start since completing his £40million move from United this summer.
The 21-year-old winger endured a hostile reception from the Lincoln crowd, who jeered him whenever he was on the ball. He still managed to carve out a few promising moments but was unable to register a goal contribution before being replaced early in the second half.
Speaking after the match, Maresca insisted that Garnacho had made the most of his opportunity:
“Of course [he took his chance],” Maresca told reporters. “It wasn’t an easy game. That’s why I was disappointed in the first half. We know we have to play better. But overall, Garnacho and [Jamie] Gittens played very well.”
Chelsea rallied after the break, with goals from Nicolas Jackson and Andrey Santos securing their passage to the fourth round.
Maresca will now hope his side can build on the result as they prepare to host Brighton in the Premier League this weekend, where Garnacho will be looking to impress once again and strengthen his case for a regular starting spot.
Maresca Praises Garnacho After Chelsea’s Narrow League Cup Win at Lincoln
