Chelsea’s 2012 summer excursions will take them to the United States as they prepare for the 2012-13 season.
The Blues return stateside for the first time since 2009, having remained in central Europe during 2010 and touring Asia last summer.
Early reports indicate that matches will be played in Washington (D.C.), New York and Seattle during the second half of July. It remains to be seen exactly how many of the first team squad make the trip as Euro 2012 commitments will see many only begin their holidays in the earlier part of the month.
It may, in turn, open up opportunities for younger players, as was the case last year when Billy Clifford and Jamal Blackman joined the senior team in Thailand and Hong Kong.
Opposition is yet to be lined up but Liverpool are believed to also be heading to the USA for the first time under their American owners, whilst Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City are all believed to be in Asia.
In 2009, Chelsea took on the MLS’ Seattle Sounders as well as Italian duo Inter and Milan and Mexican outfit America, and a similarly eclectic set of teams are likely to make up the agenda once again.
Seattle has been a regular stop for the Blues in America, as they beat Celtic 4-2 at what was then called Qwest Field in 2004, but they have also spread their wings across the breadth of the country, playing matches in Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Pasadena, Baltimore and Texas, and will now add at least two new cities to that list.
Keep your eyes on Chelsea In America for all the latest news on the tour as information becomes available over the coming weeks and months.