Nemanja Matic hopes for a first start with Chelsea in tonight's Carling Cup clash at Blackburn Rovers.

A string of eye-catching displays in the reserves earned him a substitute appearance at Stamford Bridge against Wolves last weekend.

"I was happy to get the chance and gave my maximum," Matic told chelseafc.com. "Of course we have great players at Chelsea and it is important I enjoy it and that I learn more from the other players.

"I like the football in England, it is very quick and strong physically. I try to prepare for this, I work in the gym to help and I hope I can play some more."