chelsea news

Subterms

    More stories

    • 225 Shares149 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea boss Frank Lampard fires back at claims his squad is ‘strongest’ in Premier League after Everton defeat

      by

      CHELSEA boss Frank Lampard has said he’s mystified by Jurgen Klopp’s claim his squad is the strongest in the Premier League.
      The Liverpool manager said the Blues were favourites for the title because of the “unbelievable” depth of their squad.

      Frank Lampard is mystified by claims his Chelsea squad is the strongest in the Premier LeagueCredit: AP:Associated Press

      But speaking after Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Everton, Lampard hit back at those claims – insisting his team lack the experience needed to be crowned champions.
      Lampard said: “I keep reading how we had the strongest squad in the league. I don’t understand it.
      “Teams around us have won titles and have strikers who score 30 goals every year, players who have won the Champions League.
      “We have some players who have won titles but also have some who are new to the Premier League and are young. We are a work in progress and nights like tonight can happen.

      “I don’t like them but they can happen.”
      Last week, Klopp revealed who he feels would be the biggest threat to take Liverpool’s Premier League crown.
      “Chelsea, for me, look like favourites,” he revealed.
      “They have the biggest squad, great players playing well together after a rusty start – and they are going full on now.

      “They have unbelievable opportunities to change in games and make changes from one game to the other – so that is it.”

      Lampard and his players appear dejected after their 1-0 defeat to EvertonCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      While ahead of Chelsea’s match against Tottenham, Spurs boss Jose Mourinho said his side were “just a pony” in the title race and his old side were bigger contenders.
      On Saturday, Chelsea were disappointing as they wilted to a 1-0 defeat against Everton at Goodison Park – ending a 17-game unbeaten record.
      Gylfi Sigurdsson’s first half penalty was the decider, as Chelsea missed out on an opportunity to go top of the league.

      Chelsea boss Frank Lampard confirms Hakim Ziyech and Callum Hudson-Odoi will each miss two weeks with injuries More

    • 225 Shares99 Views

      in Soccer

      Petr Cech ‘to play for Chelsea youth side’ against Tottenham in first match since retiring 19 months ago

      by

      CHELSEA legend Petr Cech is set to sensationally end his retirement to play for a Blues development side, according to a report.
      The Athletic’s Liam Twomey has revealed the Czech Republic star will be between the sticks against Tottenham in a Premier League 2 fixture at Kingsmeadow on Monday.

      Chelsea legend Petr Cech is set to come out of retirement and play for a Blues development squadCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      The 38-year-old, who has just released a Christmas single, has not played a competitive game since retiring after the Europa League final in May 2019.
      However, back in October Cech was registered as a emergency cover in Chelsea’s Premier League squad.
      Before he returned to Chelsea as technical and performance director, the shotstopper played as a netminder for local ice hockey club Guildford Phoenix.
      The reason for Cech’s involvement for the development squad is that first choice Lucas Bergstrom played for the U18 team on Saturday and Chelsea do not want him playing two games in 48 hours.

      Karlo Zigler could have played, but because he’s part of Frank Lampard’s first team squad the club would rather have him stay training with them then having to return and take a COVID-19 test.
      But Chelsea believe the match sharpness will help Cech, should he have to play first team football.

      Cech played as a netminder for local ice hockey club Guildford Phoenix.Credit: Getty Images – Getty

      Head of youth development Neil Bath is said to have been the person who suggested Cech’s involvement in Monday’s game.
      Cech has been training regularly with Chelsea’s senior squad since September.

      However, club insiders have told The Athletic that he has never been selected ahead of first team stars Kepa Arrizabalaga and Willy Caballero in training games.
      ⚽ Read our Chelsea live blog for the very latest news from the Bridge

      Chelsea legend Petr Cech on drums for catchy Xmas single More

    • 250 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea’s secret weapon is coach Anthony Barry, who has tightened up defence and got them scoring goals from set pieces

      by

      SPECIALIST coaches are becoming the new normal in football.
      In 2018, seeking an edge, Liverpool hired throw in coach Thomas Gronnemark to improve distribution from the sidelines from full backs Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson.

      Chelsea first team coach Anthony Barry has transformed the team defensivelyCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      And that trend has continued in 2020 in the Premier League with Chelsea reaping the rewards of having a set piece specialist among their coaching ranks.
      Anthony Barry, 34, enjoyed somewhat of a journeyman career as a footballer – playing at clubs including Accrington Stanley, Yeovil Town, Chester City and Fleetwood Town.
      But, as an up-and-coming coach, he was brought to Stamford Bridge to address the Blues backline that conceded 54 goals in the league last season, including 15 from dead ball situations.
      At the time of his appointment, manager Frank Lampard couldn’t hide his delight with securing Barry’s services.

      “He’s an exciting young coach and someone I’ve known for a while,” Lampard revealed.
      “I believe he will be a strong addition to the team.” Lampard hasn’t been wrong.
      This season, Chelsea have not just tightened up at the back – they’ve reversed the trend by scoring in the opposition box for fun whenever they’ve had their own set pieces.
      Barry’s hard work on the training pitch at Cobham is clearly working.

      Barry was appointed as first team last summer after a stint at WiganCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      DEFENSIVE IMPROVEMENT
      There’s no doubt the additions of goalkeeper Edouard Mendy and experienced Brazilian defender Thiago Silva have given the Blues more steel at the back.
      But Barry might just be the best signing Chelsea made this summer.
      Lampard and Barry met on a coaching course, when the latter was at Wigan Athletic in 2018.
      The former West Ham star was immediately impressed by the Liverpool-born coach’s attention to detail, and earmarked him for a role on Chelsea’s coaching staff.
      Chelsea would have had further reason to hire him seeing the development of Reece James, who excelled at Wigan while under the tutorage of Barry and waxed lyrical about his time there.
      And they’ve certainly been meaner at the back.
      In 11 games, Chelsea have kept five clean sheets and currently boast the second best defensive record in the Premier League, as Barry has got to work on the training pitch.
      While they only let in two goals during their entire Champions League group campaign, as they finished above Sevilla.

      Chelsea currently have the second best defensive record in the Premier LeagueCredit: AFP

      Barry works with Cesar Azpilicueta on defensive shape
      Barry’s influence was evident when he was seen on the Stamford Bridge touchline barking orders at his defenders when they faced set plays against Rennes.
      AN AERIAL THREAT
      Standing at 6ft 3in, Kurt Zouma is an intimidating presence in the opposition box.
      But he was never as proficient as he has been this season.
      The most goals the French defender ever managed in a Premier League campaign was two. This season, he has four – the most recent a towering header against Leeds last week.
      According to insiders, Zouma is a Barry favourite – and it’s clear to see the centre half taking note of his coach’s tactical masterplan.
      When the delivery is whipped in from either Mason Mount, Ben Chilwell or Hakim Ziyech, Zouma’s positioning has been key to creating mischief in the box.
      Of Chelsea’s 25 goals in the Premier League this season, seven have come from set pieces.

      Offensively, Chelsea have improved from set pieces under Barry too

      Thiago Silva heads home one of two set piece goals Chelsea scored against Sheffield United

      Kurt Zouma, scoring here against Leeds, has four goals this seasonCredit: Getty Images – Getty
      Two were scored against Sheffield United, a team renowned for their defending from corners and free kicks, in a 4-1 win – that showed what a threat the West Londoners now are.
      “I’m very happy with the set-piece goals,” Lampard said after that game.

      “Today shows how important they are because they make the game comfortable when — even though we’ve played well — it could have been (different).”
      With Everton up next for Lampard’s title-chasing side, Toffees boss Carlo Ancelotti will be well aware where the threat from Chelsea lies.
      But will they be able to defend those set pieces?

      Everton vs Chelsea free live stream, TV Channel and kick off time for Premier League match More

    • 200 Shares189 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea star Thiago Silva begins training to become a coach as he prepares for managerial career

      by

      CHELSEA star Thiago Silva has begun preparing for a managerial career by starting his coaching badges.
      The Brazilian centre-back, 36, signed a one-year deal at Stamford Bridge after leaving Paris Saint-Germain for free in the summer.

      Thiago Silva is preparing for life after his playing careerCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      Globo Esporte reports the veteran defender began a Brazilian football confederation (CBF) coaching course as part of his B Licence.
      Silva was joined by former Blue Filipe Luis and ex-Spurs star Paulinho in beginning the transition during the pandemic.
      Reportedly Luis, 35, is the keenest future boss out of the trio of Brazilian internationals.
      Due to social distancing guidelines, all of Silva’s coaching classes were held online.

      This helped all three players – Paulinho at Chinese side Guangzhou Evergrande and Luis in Brazil with Flamengo – balance their busy schedules with the program.
      In order to graduate from the course, face-to-face sessions and assessments will have to take place when the pandemic allows.
      Silva told the CBF website he wasn’t sure he would become a coach after hanging up his boots but highlighted it was important for him to prepare for the possibility now.
      He has made a stunning start to life in West London, helping the Blues keep four clean sheets in his seven Prem appearances.

      Caballero and Cech are the oldest players in the Premier League

      And reports suggest Frank Lampard’s side are looking to take up their option to extend his contract until 2022.
      In the absence of club captain Cesar Azpilicueta and vice Jorginho, Silva has donned the armband for Chelsea, despite still learning to master English.
      He has struck up a successful partnership with Kurt Zouma in the heart of the defence with the side unbeaten in 17 games in all competitions.
      Ahead of a busy Christmas period, Silva’s wife Isabelle turned the couple’s new home into a festive winter wonderland with the help of a decorations company.
      ⚽ Read our Chelsea live blog for the very latest news from the Bridge

      Inside Thiago Silva’s amazing house as wife pays professionals to put up Christmas decorations More

    • 225 Shares139 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea’s wage bill revealed with Alaba in line to become highest earner ahead of £310k-a-week Havertz after transfer

      by

      DAVID ALABA will become Chelsea’s best-paid player if he completes a reported £350,000-a-week switch from Bayern Munich.
      The Bundesliga giants have ended contract negotiations with Alaba, 28, ahead of his deal expiring in June.

      Any club will be able to make their own offer and pre-agree a summer switch when the January transfer window opens.
      And Chelsea are one of four clubs reportedly keen on such a deal.
      Real Madrid, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are all linked but Alaba’s wage demands may be a big stumbling block.
      German publication Bild report on the Austrian’s demands of £350,000-a-week.

      Such a high pay packet would comfortably make him Chelsea’s highest earner.
      Kai Havertz currently holds the title with a £310,000-a-week deal signed in the summer, ahead of Timo Werner’s £270,000-a-week salary.
      N’Golo Kante and Kepa Arrizabalaga earn £150,000 with Christian Pulisic back on £145,000.
      Thought to also be in the current top ten are Callum Hudson-Odoi, Thiago Silva, Ben Chilwell and Hakim Ziyech.

      Should Chelsea want to see through their reported interest in Alaba, they will have to discuss the matter with agent Pini Zahavi.
      The veteran negotiator is said to have a good relationship with the Blues.

      However, Barcelona presidential hopeful Joan Laporta is also a long-term ally of Zahavi’s.
      The dire financial situation at both Madrid and Barcelona may make it difficult for either side to lure Alaba.
      With no transfer fee involved, the Champions League winner could drive a hard bargain when it comes to personal terms.
      ⚽ Read our Chelsea live blog for the very latest news from the Bridge

      David Alaba demonstrates his home workout for Bayern Munich fans More

    • 225 Shares179 Views

      in Soccer

      Manuel Neuer singles out Chelsea star Edouard Mendy as ‘world class goalie’ after incredible start at Stamford Bridge

      by

      MANUEL NEUER lauded Chelsea keeper Edouard Mendy as a ‘world class goalie’ after his stunning start to life at Stamford Bridge.
      Mendy, 28, moved to West London from Rennes for £24million in the last window as Frank Lampard looked for an alternative to flop Kepa Arrizabalaga.

      Manuel Neuer praised Chelsea keeper Edouard MendyCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      Mendy joined the Blues from Rennes and has had a brilliant start at Stamford BridgeCredit: AP:Associated Press

      And the Senegal shot-stopper has had the dream beginning to his Blues career, registering NINE clean sheets in his first 12 games.
      Mendy – who was signed on the recommendation of Chelsea exec and former Rennes keeper Petr Cech – boasts the best record in the Premier League.
      And he tops the class in the Champions League – conceding just once back at old side Rennes in five group stage games – performing better than Europe’s best No1s including German ace Neuer.
      Neuer told L’Equipe: “There are a lot of world class goalies right now.

      “For example, Edouard Mendy, who moved from Rennes to Chelsea.
      “He is a player that we only saw in Ligue 1, who joined a big club and who was immediately successful.
      “It’s great to see that.
      “Overall, I’m happy to see so many good goalkeepers because we’re a brotherhood.”

      Incredibly, Mendy has enjoyed an identical start to the one Cech did in 2004 – both notching nine blanks in their first 12 appearances.
      The similarities don’t stop there as in the same period both goalkeepers were beaten just three times.
      Mendy’s five Prem clean sheets have helped Chelsea concede only 11 goals in as many league games – a significant turnaround after Lampard’s side finished last campaign with the worst defensive record in the top half.
      ⚽ Read our Chelsea live blog for the very latest news from the Bridge

      Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy reveals he nearly quit football while on dole and living with pregnant girlfriend More

    • 250 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Watch Timo Werner miss from just one yard out after Olivier Giroud header in howler for Chelsea striker against Leeds

      by

      TIMO WERNER was left head in hands after missing from point-blank range against Leeds.
      And replays showed the German actually preventing strike partner Olivier Giroud from heading home.

      Timo Werner was left head in hands after missing from point-blank range against LeedsCredit: Reuters

      Replays appeared to show the German actually preventing strike partner Olivier Giroud from heading homeCredit: Reuters

      Giroud nodded across goal from a corner with Werner latching onto it.
      But he failed to make contact at first and his second effort ended up hitting the bar from just a few yards out.
      Werner was in no position to tell whether Giroud’s initial header was goal bound.
      But it looked as though the summer signing blocked the ball from crossing the line.

      Fans online were in disbelief following the howler.
      One said: “Werner shocking miss that.”
      Another said: “Awful miss by Werner, goodness.”
      One wrote: “Werner literally cleared it off the line for Leeds. You couldn’t make it up.”

      Now I’ve just seen the Werner miss 😳😳😳
      — RohanJivan (@RjArsenalBlog) December 5, 2020

      Werner has already scored eight goals in 16 games following his move from RB Leipzig.
      But in recent matches, the 24-year-old has suffered some misfortune with missed chances.
      His blushes were sparred on 26 minutes, as Giroud provided a tidy finish from a Reece James cross.
      And Kurt Zouma’s towering header put the Blues ahead in the second half.

      Chelsea legend Petr Cech on drums for catchy Xmas single More

    • 250 Shares109 Views

      in Soccer

      Chelsea boss Lampard could drop Giroud vs Leeds despite scoring four at Sevilla ‘due to lack of threat in behind’

      by

      OLIVIER GIROUD’s lack of pace could see him dropped for Chelsea’s clash with Leeds, it has been claimed.
      A four-goal performance against Sevilla in the week has pushed the Frenchman towards another start on Saturday.

      Olivier Giroud smashed four goals in a rare start in SpainCredit: Getty Images – Getty

      A pair of headers came alongside a clinical finish and penalty for the striker, whose only mistake was awkwardly bungling a knee-slide celebration.
      Wednesday’s stunning outing was just Giroud’s second start all season, the other coming in the Carabao Cup.
      And it has served to add to Frank Lampard’s already-significant selection headache.
      Timo Werner and Tammy Abraham have both banged in the goals this season – with eight and five, respectively.

      It appears to be a toss-up between Giroud and Abraham for the Leeds game.
      But the England international may have the edge thanks to his fresher legs and added pace.

      One Chelsea source cited by The Athletic has detailed Lampard’s worry over Giroud’s ability to get in behind.
      The 34-year-old shrugged off concern over his place in the Leeds team after the Sevilla win.

      He said: “Just let me enjoy the night and the great win, and after we will rest and then we will see what the gaffer’s plans are.”
      Leeds travel to West London for an 8pm kick-off at Stamford Bridge.
      Marcelo Bielsa’s side did not play during the week and Lampard may rotate his side for the match-up, with Abraham, Werner, Kurt Zouma and Thiago Silva all rested against Sevilla.
      The Blues boss is keen to see how Giroud recovers from the trip to Spain before making his selection call.
      He stated: “Four goals at this level and the quality of the goals, individual aspects from Olivier, team aspects in the first half, from back to front the team were great.
      “[It was an] amazing solo performance from Olivier. [I’m] delighted with him, delighted with the team. This is a difficult place to come. There were moments in the first half where it was tough and we dealt with it.

      “Olivier is reliable, full stop.
      “We’ll have to see [about Saturday] – it’s a tight turnaround but it’s four goals in a game.
      “It’s not just his performance but when you play him and utilise his strengths and his speed, there’s a real balance in the rest of the team.”
      ⚽ Read our Chelsea live blog for the very latest news from the Bridge

      Olivier Giroud grabs four goals for Chelsea in Champions League tie with Sevilla More