The Blues boss is hoping to overcome a first-leg deficit to book a spot at Wembley
Liam Rosenior says Chelsea’s recent success on the biggest stages gives him confidence his players can rise to the occasion against Arsenal in the EFL Cup.
Chelsea lifted two major trophies last season under former head coach Enzo Maresca, winning the UEFA Conference League before claiming the revamped FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.
Rosenior believes that experience will be crucial as his side attempt to overturn a 3-2 deficit in the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final against Premier League leaders Arsenal.
“I think my players can play in big games,” Rosenior said. “You look at Enzo Fernandez, who has won a World Cup, and the group as a whole winning two trophies last year. They can perform in big games and it’s definitely a big game on Tuesday.”
Chelsea come into the tie after an impressive comeback victory over West Ham at the weekend, but Rosenior stressed that preparation and recovery are his priorities rather than focusing on Arsenal or their manager.
“I won’t speak about what Arsenal or Mikel Arteta have or haven’t done,” he said. “That’s not my concern. My concern is resting. It’s another three-game week and we need to recover. It’s going to be a really physical game on Tuesday and it’s about preparing the team as best I can.”
Asked whether reaching a League Cup final by knocking out Arsenal would strengthen his case as Chelsea head coach, Rosenior played down any personal significance.
“I’ll be really honest, I don’t really care about proving whether I’m right for the job or not,” he said. “If we get to the final, it’s great for Chelsea Football Club. It’s not about me.
“I’ll prove in time whether I’m worthy or not, but that’s not at the forefront of my mind.”
Rosenior also provided an update on 18-year-old winger Estevao, who missed the win over West Ham after returning to Brazil for personal reasons.
The Chelsea boss said no decision has been made on whether the teenager will be involved against Arsenal.
“I don’t know yet,” he said. “He’s a young kid who’s come in and been magnificent. He’s going through a really difficult time and he’s on compassionate leave. I won’t put any pressure on him. It has to be right for him and he has to feel in the right place to perform for this team.”
