Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has addressed the media ahead of his side’s EFL Cup quarter-final against Cardiff City later this week, insisting his full focus remains on the match despite recent comments that attracted attention.

The Blues face Cardiff after edging past Lincoln City and Premier League strugglers Wolves in the earlier rounds, with the fixture standing out as the only quarter-final not involving two top-flight teams.

Chelsea have won each of their last five EFL Cup quarter-final ties and will be confident of extending that run against the League One side. However, Maresca was first asked to clarify remarks made earlier in the week, when he described the previous two days as the “worst 48 hours” of his time at the club.

“I already spoke about that and I have nothing to add,” Maresca said. “It’s Cardiff tomorrow, please. I think I was quite clear.

“I respect your opinion and people’s opinions, but my focus is on tomorrow’s game and on trying to reach a third semi-final during my time at the club. I’ve already answered the question and I have nothing more to add.”

When asked directly if he remains committed to his role as Chelsea head coach, Maresca was unequivocal.

“Absolutely, yes,” he said.

Turning his attention to the EFL Cup, Maresca emphasised the importance of maintaining focus in what he described as potentially tricky fixtures.

“These are the worst games for these reasons,” he said. “Football is full of these kinds of matches and the focus has to be on Cardiff.

“It’s something we want to achieve for the fans. This is a club with great history and we have to do our best tomorrow to reach another semi-final. That is the main thing.”

Maresca added that he believes Chelsea are moving in the right direction as he looks to instil a winning mentality at the club.

“Since I joined, I’ve always said the same thing: building a winning mentality comes from winning games,” he said. “Tomorrow is another chance to reach a semi-final and it’s an important moment for everyone at the club.

“I feel we are improving. There have been moments where we dropped points, but that’s part of the journey. I have the feeling we are getting better and better.”

Asked about expectations at Stamford Bridge, Maresca acknowledged the pressure that comes with managing Chelsea, where success is always demanded.

“When you are Chelsea manager, you understand that expectations are high,” he said. “This season, compared to last season, they are even higher. That’s normal when you are a Chelsea player or manager.”