The Emirates Airline Dubai Football Sevens may be more ageing primadonas than irresistible Maradonas, but this weekend’s event has cast Kerry Dixon’s mind back to the 1986 World Cup.

The former Chelsea frontman turns out for the Blues’ ‘Legends’ side at The Sevens on Friday and will face off against veteran footballers from AC Milan, Manchester United and Celtic in Group A. And, although the calibre of the Rossoneri squad should have their rivals quaking in their tatty old football boots - Franco Baresi, Paolo Maldini, Paolo Di Canio, Zvonimir Boban and Christian Vieri all line-up for Milan - Dixon insists the prospect of playing in the Dubai heat is giving him a few sleepless nights.

“It used to be hard enough in the summer whenever I was still playing, so the heat here will definitely be a factor,” said Dixon, who bagged 193 goals in 440 appearances for Chelsea.

“There’ll be a few hoping there’s plenty of water on the sidelines and thanking the organisers that they’ve allowed roll-on subs.

“But it’s the same for everyone so we’ll just have to go out there to acclimatise as quickly as we can. I played with England in Mexico in 1986 in similar conditions.

“Then, we had two-and a half weeks of preparation, but of course I don’t expect this tournament to be anywhere near as frenetic as the World Cup.

“Although there’s still personal pride at stake and we’ll be doing our best.”

Dixon admits he isn’t sure if Chelsea’s best will be good enough.

Milan seem to be a safe bet to take home the trophy given their squad boasts 35 Serie A titles, 21 European Cup winners medals and two World Cup crowns.

Meanwhile, Dixon will be representing the Londoners alongside Clive Wilson, Kenny Swain and Keith Dublin - hardly a list to have the Milanese seeking refuge under their designer Armani jackets.

“With those sort of players Milan will definitely start as favourites,” said the 48-year-old Dixon. “Some of those boys have just recently played in Serie A.

Maldini only finished last year and Vieri called it a day not too long before.

“I stopped playing in 1997 and that was with Doncaster. Fitness in veterans’ football usually counts for a lot and it takes its toll the older you get.

“But we’ve gone for experience. We’re definitely in the competition to win it, although we’re probably aiming not to be embarrassed either.

“If it’s all about youth, we won’t be one of the favourites, but if it’s about desire, the will to win and trying your best, then we’re certainly up there.”

A svelte Dixon relied on his blistering pace to light up Stamford Bridge between 1983 and 1992.

However, when asked what shape he’s in now, he replied: “Round... I’ve put on a few pounds since I retired.”

Maybe there will be a taste of Maradona this week after all.