Perth: Chelsea FC to have open training session at WACA

CHELSEA FC will have an open training session at the WACA on Saturday July 21 from 6pm ahead of their marquee match with Perth Glory.

Highlighted as part of a series of grassroots development activities, the open training session is the only opportunity for fans to watch the FA Cup winners go through their paces before the match at Optus Stadium on Monday July 23.

Fans wishing to attend the training session should visit the Optus Stadium Facebook page to register their attendance.

Gates open at 5pm, training takes place from 6pm-7pm with CAT bus services in operation before after the session with parking available nearby.

Chelsea FC Chairman Bruce Buck said the team was looking forward to heading to WA.

“We are very excited to bring our preparations for the 2018/19 season in Perth,” he said.

“The passion of our Australian supporters, which we were so delighted to see in Sydney in 2015, means we are all looking forward to the trip and getting the new campaign started in the right way.”

In addition to the open training session, Chelsea development team coaches will visit Perth for a seven-day schedule of events, in conjunction with Football West, starting Monday July 16.

The clinics include elite, development and school groups, coach education sessions and culminate in an under 8 tournament that will take place on Sunday, July 22.

More than 40 years have passed since Premier League giants Chelsea FC last visited Perth and the July 23 match will be the only game in the Asia Pacific this year for the Blues.

Thousands of fans from around WA, interstate and overseas are expected as Perth turns blue next week.

Final remaining tickets for the clash between Perth Glory and Chelsea FC are on sale through Ticketmaster.

A special Chelsea FC Fan Zone outside Optus Stadium will open at 4pm on match day, ahead of the 7.30pm kick-off.

Fans will have the opportunity to have photo with the FA Cup, test their skills with a target shooting competition and much more.