Maresca spent the 2009/10 season in the Greek capital playing for Olympiacos – the fierce rivals of Panathinaikos – and experienced firsthand the intense atmosphere generated by supporters.

That is something the Blues are likely to face this evening at the Olympic Stadium, which can seat around 70,000 fans. However, having shown the composure required to perform against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, Maresca believes his young side will handle the occasion.

He said: 'I'm from Italy and I know that it's [the atmosphere] is very close to Italy. It's similar. As you said, it's a different environment, but it's nice, I think.

‘I don't think tomorrow’s environment is worse or better than Anfield last Sunday. So I think the players are quite good at dealing with that.'

Panathinaikos started their Conference League campaign with a 1-1 draw against FK Borac and have been beaten just once in their last five Greek Super League matches. It's why Maresca expects a stern test for his side this evening in Athens.

The Blues head coach said: 'Panathinaikos have some good players. For instance, I was at Leicester last year and Tete was there two years ago, so I know [about him]. There are different kinds of players and they are good players.

‘Also, the manager (Diego Alonso) was in Sevilla. So, I think overall, like all the clubs, they have good things and some problems – and we're going to try to do our best to try to compete in the right way tomorrow.’

• A tribute to George Baldock, who sadly passed away earlier this month while a Panathinaikos player, will take place before kick-off. Chelsea supporters can participate in this by collecting green sheets of paper when entering the stadium and lifting when appropriate.