There is a full obituary to our former chairman, Bates, who ensured that Stamford Bridge remained our home and went on to hold the position for 22 years, in which time we returned to winning major silverware and playing regular European football.

As the tribute affirms: 'Football club chairmen became prominent and well-known like never before in the latter part of the 20th Century and none more so than Ken Bates. He was a fighter and proud to be known as one, and the victories he achieved helped shape the Chelsea we know today.'

Meanwhile, goal-scoring legend Tambling is remembered in a touching tribute by his former room-mate and strike partner Barry Bridges, who recalls decades of friendship.

Referring to his mate as 'an absolute gem', he reflects on their joint dream debut against West Ham United in February 1959.

'Making your debut for Chelsea is one thing, but to go through it all with such a good friend just made it even more special. And for both of us to score was like a dream. You just couldn’t script it.

'The next morning we went to the newsagents and bought a copy of every paper.'

Elsewhere in the programme, we introduce new signing Marco Palestra with an exclusive interview, as the reigning Serie A Defender of the Year looks ahead to life at Chelsea.

'I know there is a lot of intensity here... and I like the intensity,' he says. 'I know also there is maybe more physicality, but I feel good about that too.

'I’m sure that I will feel good in the Premier League, I can’t wait to start playing. I feel confident because of my team-mates, and the kind of football there is in the Premier League – I think I can do good here. We will see, but I’m sure that it will be good.'

There’s plenty more inside, along with your regular columns and all the info you need on the match itself. Pick up your copy from the programme sellers around Stamford Bridge or order online from our publications partner, Reach Sport.