Mark Robinson's side returned to action last Friday after a short break and recorded a 1-1 draw against Leicester City in Premier League 2. A reaction and improved performance is wanted tonight.

'I don't think we were at our best against Leicester, you could really tell we were lacking in rhythm,' said Robinson. 'As a coaching team we set high standards of the boys because we know they are fantastic young players, but Friday was below that usual level.'

Chelsea's first fixture in the competition came back in September; the young Blues were beaten 3-1 by Lyon at Kingsmeadow.

Zagreb will provide a different test and, with progression from the group hanging in the balance, victory is the priority.

'Facing Zagreb, a team we may not know as much about, presents a unique challenge,' explained Robinson. 'It is an opportunity for both our players and us as coaches to be problem-solvers and adapt to any in-game adjustments that may be necessary.'

He continued: 'In football, encountering unfamiliar opposition can be a valuable learning experience. It forces us to rely on our training, instincts, and teamwork. The unpredictability of these matches can bring out the best in us.'

Robinson's preparation for the game has been affected by several things including players going on international duty, injuries and players needing rest but the Under-21s head coach does not let himself get bothered by these things.

'I think having the experience of being a first-team manager means I am very relaxed and flexible to late changes in our training numbers, squad and team selection.

'The first-team's needs always come first and I only see it as positive when players get called upon, whether it be for training or games.

'Obviously it makes preparation more difficult but it also opens up opportunities for other players who are often younger. We love the challenge of having a younger squad this season.'

During his time as first-team manager at Wimbledon, Robinson also worked with a young squad. And he is channeling the experiences gained in that role to help our young Blues.

He said: 'On a personal level I had the youngest squad in league football when I was a manager so it is a great opportunity to give them an education into the challenges they will face and prepare them better for that transition when it happens.

'This is not just tactically and physically but mentally and socially. The move to men's football will always be a learning curve but the better we can prepare them the more chance they have of success in an industry where time to impress is very rarely a luxury.'