Chelsea FC: A Half Term Review

Article by Lee Beevor

With exactly half of the 2013/14 season complete, it seems an opportune moment to review the progress of Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea. On the face of it, positive strides have been made, as by this stage in our last campaign, we were a distant eleven points adrift of Manchester United. Whilst United has floundered under new management, Chelsea has prospered and lie well placed in third, a mere two points behind leaders Arsenal.

That is not to say that all is rosy at Stamford Bridge. Inheriting a squad that most will accept is lacking balance; Mourinho has papered over the cracks with astute rotation and motivational skills. As has been the case in the past, he has managed to keep those on the fringes of the first eleven sufficiently involved that they have played well when called upon. His eleven “untouchables” are but a striker away from complete, with his preferred starters consisting of Cech, Ivanovic, Cahill, Terry, Azpilicueta, Ramires, Lampard, Willian, Oscar and Hazard. His formation remains 4-2-3-1, as was the case during his time at Real Madrid.

The defensive unit has started to look more solid in recent weeks, with more playing time together improving their understanding and confidence. Personally, I do not agree with Mourinho’s choice, as I believe Ivanovic should play as a centre half, with Azpilicueta at right back. This would improve the supply of crosses from the right side, as Cesar is far more skilled in this art than the big Serbian. I would also restore Ashley Cole to the team, with Cahill making way. This would give a back four of Azpilicueta, Terry, Ivanovic and Cole, all playing in the positions in which they feel most comfortable.

Turning to the midfield, the double pivot is usually manned by Ramires and Lampard. For the games where the defence is likely to be under more pressure, Mikel has tended to come in. There have been several variations employed to date, but assuming all are fit and available, Mourinho is likely to opt for Mikel and Ramires, with Lampard slotting into the offensive trio ahead. David Luiz may have thrown a spanner in the works with his sumptuous display against Liverpool. His range of passing gave Chelsea more speed and thrust on the counter, which may force the Special One to reconsider his opinion of Luiz in this role.

As for the attacking triptych, Willian is stacking his claim for the right to line-up alongside Oscar and Hazard. The Brazilian has put in a series of energetic displays over the festive period, which could signal the end of the road for Juan Mata’s time in West London. It would be sad to see him leave, but it is difficult to see any alternative. He has fallen behind all but De Bruyne in the manager’s plans and a large bid from an overseas team could see him sold to fund the required purchase of a striker. De Bruyne too may depart, either on loan or permanently, dependant on what offers materialise from his host of Bundesliga admirers.

Finally to the real problem area: the forwards. Sadly both Eto’o and Torres are shadows of the truly great goal scorers they once were. Watching them continually squander opportunities they would once have nonchalantly converted is desperately frustrating. Likewise, watching Demba Ba’s comical efforts to maintain balance for long enough to scuff a shot towards goal is just as unrewarding. To win the Premier League, the addition of one top class striker is essential.  Once again, there have been stories of Radamel Falcoa’s discontent with life in Monaco doing the rounds. If these bear any hint of truth, Chelsea should table a bid and let the rather unpalatable, but on this occasion highly convenient, agent and player power do the rest. With his or any comparable addition to the squad, Chelsea could make 2014 a very prosperous one indeed!

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