3rd May, 2015 – The day we will long remember as one of our most dominant title victories in history! With a staggering 13 point lead at the top of the table (could be cut to 7 points depending on whether Arsenal makes good of their 2 games in hand), the season has indeed been a phenomenal one for everyone associated with the club.
Were we entertaining? Definitely. Despite what the critics and the pseudo critics might say, except for the past few weeks, there were few teams who could withhold Chelsea’s attacking prowess. The recent weeks were a show of our technicality and substance; we had already proven the style long back in the season. And add to that a season where we absolutely dominated the lead, with a second best attacking force (only second to Man City) and the best defensive record in the league, and don’t even get me started on the manner we were at the top for most parts of the season!
But yes, I won’t deny the frustration when we sometime had to thank our lucky stars for scrapping off the 3 points, especially some of the smaller games. Against United, the tactic was evident. We weren’t really pushed back by the Red Devils, we actually allowed them to play where it didn’t hurt! Same went against Arsenal, but I won’t be ashamed to admit that there were times in the season where we were outclassed and outperformed by the smaller teams. Yes, I am talking about teams like QPR, Stoke and Hull, these games didn’t really make me comfortable. As much as I love being the champions of England, what I would love more is the prospect of becoming the most dominant champions! And that longs for ruthlessness, which our squad is very well capable of. Defensive play shouldn’t be our plan A, a balanced game should be that! Well, no one wants us to become Arsenal by forgetting our defensive responsibilities now, do we?
That calls for the question – what next for the champions! We have 3 games left before we close the chapter this term, and having already clinched the title, isn’t it the right time to experiment?
Our next game is against Liverpool, and I sure hope to see Loic Remy lead the line. The lad has been unfortunate to have gotten injured at a time where he could have won over the blue family with his attacking flair. Zouma needs to start in his natural position, partnering JT or Cahill. I would love to see Petr Cech back in goal for this big game with little at stake. How I would love to see a young Solanke featuring sometime in the second half, or an Izzy coming on for Willian/Oscar at 65 minutes. Not to forget Ake, the lad is just back from impressing at Reading, and will be eager to prove his worth to his club.
It might be a little too much to ask for, but the last couple of games should also give young Tammy Abraham a shot at showing what he is capable of, he sure has the physique, pace and skills to impress us!
Looking at our next term, it is not hard to see that we can still improve at a few positions. Firstly, we need a natural right midfielder, or need to make sure Cuadrado is well worth the hype. Secondly, we need to decide whether a youngster, preferably Solanke or Bamford can be promoted as the third choice striker, behind Costa and Remy.
And please depend on Willian! The fella has been the most underrated performer of the season. But we really struggle without his work ethic all over the pitch! Oscar, I have personally lost faith in him. He is having an off-on season, and he really needs to get more focused to seal a place in the team like Hazard. Fab and Nema should continue their partnership at the heart of our midfield, orchestrating the team’s play.
I wouldn’t ask for too many signings with reports going around claiming Chelsea might go for Bale, though having Bale wouldn’t really hurt now, would it? 😉
What do you think about Chelsea’s title truimph this season? Who has been your standout player…well after Hazard! And what is the line up you want to see against Liverpool? Leave your thoughts in the comments section below, I’d love to hear from you!
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