Enzo Maresca: Fulham game is a 'final' for Chelsea

Currently sixth in the table and five points adrift of third-placed Newcastle United, Chelsea's form has faltered after a promising start to the season.

Maresca, who has overseen heavy investment in the squad, admitted that rivals Newcastle and Aston Villa appear to have more "confidence" in the battle for European places.

Both clubs are firmly in contention, with Newcastle considered frontrunners and Villa also establishing themselves in the top-five mix.

Newcastle, in fine form despite a lack of major signings due to the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules, continue to impress.

They are being led by assistant manager Jason Tindall while Eddie Howe recovers from pneumonia. The Magpies face a significant test on Saturday when they travel to Aston Villa in a match that could have major implications for the top-five picture.

Chelsea, meanwhile, remain active in Europe, having progressed to the UEFA Conference League semi-finals despite a 2-1 home defeat to Legia Warsaw.

"For sure tonight was a setback for us. We lost a game," he said.

"The other clubs like Villa, Newcastle have more confidence around them but things in football can change quick. Sunday [against Fulham], for us, is a final and can be a boost to reach our target."