Mauricio Pochettino’s reign as Chelsea boss got off to a flying start last night as his youthful side hammered League Two newcomers Wrexham.
Kicking off their pre-season tour of the US in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, the Blues were two up at the break thanks to Ian Maatsen’s double.
A much-changed line-up had to wait until the final 10 minutes to add to the scoreline, with Conor Gallagher, new signing Christopher Nkunku and Ben Chilwell netting before full-time.
Pochettino, 51, was delighted to see his team win but was quick to admit there was room for improvement.
He said: “Like always after a pre-season game, I’m happy because of the attitude.
“But of course, it is time to improve. I think it is part of the process in this period to learn in the way we want to play and build the physical condition.
“I’m happy with the performance. I think the most important thing now is to get positive feelings and to start to play again after the holidays.
“All the players came in at different levels and now it’s about putting them all at similar levels to try to compete for the season.”
The average age of Poch’s starting XI was just over 19 but there was no sign of inexperience as National League winners Wrexham were brushed aside.
He added: “It’s good to have the opportunity to see all these young guys who can show their quality.
“It’s important for them and for us to have a real assessment. For sure all have quality, they need time and space to show they can compete for a place in the squad.”
Dutchman Maatsen, 21, opened the scoring after just three minutes following good work from Nicolas Jackson and added his second in the 42nd minute.
Gallagher found the net with a guided shot from distance 10 minutes from time and Nkunku struck in the 90th after rounding Rob Lainton, on as a sub for Ben Foster.
Chilwell got in on the act in stoppage time after latching on to a ball from Angelo Gabriel.
