These stories are samples pulled from external media sources. They do not represent the views or position of Chelsea Football Club.

Tykes manager speaks ahead of cup tie

Barnsley manager Gerhard Struber has described Chelsea as ‘a special team’ and is looking forward to the opportunity to match his side up against the Blues at Stamford Bridge in the Carabao Cup, the Yorkshire Post reports.

The Championship side go into the tie as underdogs but Struber feels his players will give a good account of themselves.

‘It is a big game for me and my boys and the club,’ said the Austrian.

‘We play against a special team with special key players and it is a nice feeling for everyone to play against Chelsea.

‘This is my first time at Stamford Bridge and against an opponent on this level. It is a special feeling and challenge, but I like challenges at this level and we have to be brave on the field.

‘I trust my boys and my whole squad that we can play a good game. After that, we will see with the result.’

While Barnsley have started slowly in the league, losing their first two games, Struber remains upbeat about the prospects of his team.

‘It is always important that you believe and I believe in my boys,’ the 43-year-old added.

‘After Chelsea, we have a big game in the Championship. Against Chelsea, we have a chance to grow up in our style.

‘It is the best place for education, but I hope we do not have moments running against us, but a situation to show we are professional players, but to show Chelsea that Barnsley is not only a nice place, but also ready for good football.’

Baker happy to be playing football again

Lewis Baker has told the Turkish media of his delight at returning to competitive football action for the first time in nine months, Turkish news website Hurriyet reports.

Having joined Trabzonspor on loan for the season, the 25-year-old played the full 90 minutes in his new club’s 0-0 draw with Denizlispor in the Turkish Super Lig last weekend in his first competitive match since last December.

After a disappointing loan spell at German side Fortuna Dusseldorf last season, Baker is hopeful of a fresh start at the club now coached by former Chelsea midfielder and assistant manager Eddie Newton.

‘Frankly, I had a bit of difficulty in the first game. But I think I got over it slowly and in a short time I got along very well with my team-mates,’ said Baker.

‘I can say that I miss football. After a long time, I had the opportunity to get back into competitive action and to play matches which matter. That's why I am looking forward to the rest of the season, frankly.

‘I think that the experience I will have here and the opportunity to play will be significant in my career.

‘I talked with the coach about the club’s projects before I arrived. We talked about the future of the club and what they want to do.

‘This is a new challenge for me. I definitely accept this challenge. That's one of the reasons I came here.’

Bilic won’t miss Chelsea game

The Express and Star reports West Bromwich Albion manager Slaven Bilic will be in the dugout for this weekend’s visit to the Hawthorns by Chelsea after escaping a ban for his red card in last weekend’s Premier League match at Everton.

The Croatian was dismissed by referee Mike Dean after remonstrating with the official at half-time during the Baggies’ 5-2 loss at Goodison Park.

But while he has been fined by the FA after accepting a charge of improper conduct, he won’t have to serve a touchline ban.

‘Bilic was charged with improper conduct and could have faced a two-match touchline ban if evidence of abusive or insulting language had been found,’ stated the report.

‘But after watching video footage of the incident, the FA instead deemed the incident minor and instead opted to fine the 52-year-old.

‘It means Bilic will be in the dugout for Albion's League Cup clash with Brentford. He will also be in charge for Saturday's visit of Chelsea.’