Could it be that having too many International Stars is hurting Chelsea? Not being able to finish, whether it be scoring goals or securing a draw or win seems to be the crutch of the winter... Blues...
Dropping to Leverkusen right at the end is heartbreaking. Chelsea is conceding at a very bad pace. An Arsenal pounding from someone like Man City at this point would not be surprising. Simple mistakes at the back are becoming very costly. Short of Genk, there is not light competition in the Champions League. Liverpool also showed that there is not a lack of competition in the Premier League.
Being able to defend is just as important as being able to score. Is not having Essien really causing a midfield slump? I really believe Mikel should be moved on, and perhaps even Luiz moved up to that position. Luiz loves running forward and still is a bit careless with his challenges when he is in the 18. I believe we have also not seen enough of Kalou this season. Sturridge has proven his value, and I believe will become a knight of the front line. I feel Kalou needs to be given more opportunities as well. Malouda has made his statements to the press, and seemingly performed on the field being the star player of last year. Does the cold affect the players this much? For the games that have been conceded there has been quite a bit of standing around. With only 3 subs, changes have to be made delicately, but in some regards DO need to be made.
After Wolves, the next set of games are not going to come easy. Valencia is playing very well and then Manchester City. It's time to string up those boots tight boys, closing down on the ball and first touch passing are imperative for a successful run. One must be able to find the back of the net and not pull the ball out of your own as much.
I have faith in Ramires, but when he isn't performing Kalou needs to come on. Meireles needs to start instead of Mikel, and Ivan and Terry holding central with Cole and Bosingwa on the wings. Mata and Sturridge flanking out a rotating Torres and Drogba. Kalou, Drogba, and Luiz/Alex should be used and in every game given an opportunity at the least 60 minute mark. Perhaps sometimes there is a problem with being too deep in the substitution field, with Anelka in the wings who is a proven performer. Perhaps it's time to grab some of that money back Roman.
Villas Boas is exactly right, he can only provide good training agendas and motivation. The players are the ones who must perform on the field. With outstanding performances from Lampard, the team cannot rely on one man with Petr Cech making incredible saves and believe that they will even make the Champions League next year.
December should be an exciting month to say the least.
GO BLUES!
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