Our young Blues and our opponents from across the capital both come into this game having been victorious in their opening fixture of the Premier League Cup. We were 4-2 victors against Barnsley; Spurs were 3-0 winners at Blackburn.

The two sides also have identical records in the league this season, with Tottenham's goals scored column the only reason they sit top. That will ensure Saturday's game is an exciting affair, with nothing to separate them on the stats sheet in 2023/24 so far.

Kick-off is scheduled for 11am and, with this being the first chance for supporters to tune into an Academy game this season, Under-18s head coach Hassan Sulaiman outlined what they should expect.

He explained: 'We have tried to develop a style of play that consists of being a possession-based team, where we are measured, precise and calm in our decision-making. It is about not rushing but still being decisive in our play once we get to the final third.'

Chelsea have already scored 19 goals in the Under-18 Premier League this season, which is the third highest, and they struck four goals in their first cup game of the season, reinforcing the message being passed across to the players.

'We look to be aggressive and make as many goalscoring opportunities as possible,' Sulaiman added: 'The aim is to continue how we have started, improve on the areas that we are weak, and ultimately become a team that is the best it can possibly be.'

With supporters setting their eyes on a number of younger players for the first time this season, Sulaiman spoke about what he wants from his players ahead of the contest.

'The environment at Chelsea is an elite, high-pressured environment, so, for me, more eyes provides the opportunity to show the good work they have been involved in,' he said. 'Our standards will not change, whether it is one fan watching or 50,000 fans watching.

He added: 'It will be a tough game, against a very good side, so more eyes being on the players, despite it being a new experience, can't be the focus.

'We view it as any other game, prepare the way we normally prepare. The players will know their assignments and will be looking to get a positive result.'

The preparation for the fixture against Spurs will be shorter, with players returning from international duty at different points, but Sulaiman still has high expectations on the group to perform.

'Our lads, even after international duty, come back with an even stronger desire to succeed. They are focused, hardworking, and they are going to finish the year strong.

'Seeing their hunger and commitment to achieve their goals is exactly the mindset I want them to have.

'If we perform to our best, I am sure we can get the result that we want. The key to this is by continuing to apply the principles we have been applying so far this season.

'I want us to be consistent in our approach and that will help us not only in this match, but in the season as a whole.'

Fans can watch Saturday's game for free only on the official Chelsea app, with the action getting under way at 11am. More details can be found here.

To watch for free, make sure you are logged in or registered with an official Chelsea FC account.