National team and PHC defender Kevin Richards says he's excited about the prospect of playing against what potentially could be a star-studded Chelsea reserves team early next month

The Bermuda national squad will jet off to London on April 27 as they continue to prepare for their crucial upcoming World Cup qualifier against Trinidad and Tobago in June.

And after training at Fulham's facilities, they then take on the Blues' second string which could include the likes of former European Footballer of the Year Andriy Shevchenko who has failed to earn a regular spot in the Chelsea first time.

"I am really excited about the prospect of stepping out on the same pitch as the Chelsea reserves," said Richards yesterday. "It will be a great opportunity to play top quality opposition and reevaluate our progression as a squad."

"These are the guys looking to take a spot from people like Essien and Ballack, so you can be sure they will be top class footballers," added Richards who only this week returned from trials with English League Championship side QPR.

"I have never played against a Premiership team before, but the starting right back at QPR is on loan from Chelsea, so for me it would be good to play against other players of that ilk to grow accustomed to playing at that level."

The Zebras defender said it was the right direction to go in order for the Island to be ready for what lies ahead for Bermuda.

"As some of the Trinidadian players play in the Premiership, they are accustomed to playing at such a high level so this is the best preparation we could have asked for.

"Although I'm an Arsenal fan, I have the utmost respect for Chelsea and have said on a number of occasions that this year's PHC team reminded me of Chelsea during the Mourinho era.

"Chelsea are one of the great teams of this decade."