Maresca says Chelsea's red-card run is teaching opportunity

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca stated on Tuesday that he would not impose stricter measures on his young team after a series of red cards, any more than he would strictly punish his own children.

"I have four children. When they make a mistake, I do not punish them, I aim to guide them towards the correct behaviour. I approach the players similarly, trying to assist them in grasping the situation," Maresca explained during a press conference.

"This reflects my perspective. It might be correct or not, I am unsure. However, it is how I prefer to operate."

The team has received red cards in every one of their past four games and in five out of the last six. Maresca himself was sent off at the conclusion of the 2-1 victory over Liverpool earlier this month.

The ejections of goalkeeper Robert Sanchez versus Manchester United and then Trevoh Chalobah against Brighton led to losses in those encounters.

"I am not the type of coach who punishes players, as I believe that is not the proper approach," Maresca remarked. "I favour guiding them to comprehend and perform correctly."

Although Malo Gusto's dismissal late in the game on Saturday occurred with Chelsea leading 3-0 against Nottingham Forest, he will sit out the home match against Sunderland at Stamford Bridge this weekend.

Joao Pedro will miss Wednesdays Champions League fixture at home to Ajax, due to his red card from two bookings in the dying moments of the triumph over Benfica in Chelseas previous European outing.

Maresca received a fine of £8,000 ($10,705) and a one-match ban for his enthusiastic celebrations after Estevao Willians injury-time goal against Liverpool.

He noted that the players are handling their own lack of discipline.

"The team has an internal system in the dressing room regarding penalties," Maresca mentioned. "They oversee it themselves."

Maresca indicated that the issue preventing Enzo Fernandez from playing against Forest was minor, and that Liam Delap, who has been out with a hamstring problem since August, is close to resuming training.

"Liam is almost ready," Maresca added. "He is not yet training with the group, but we hope he can join sessions in the coming days.

"Enzo participated (on Monday). We have another session, and we will determine the plan for (Wednesday). It is nothing to concern ourselves with, just a matter of safeguarding him."