Hosting games at the Bridge before now has always been tricky irrespective of the opponents.
But more so today, with Eddie Howe boasting a good record against Chelsea, for this fact, today’s encounter against Newcastle was firmly poised.
After the release of the lineups, many including myself got a bit confused as to how the team would set-up.
After lining up on the pitch with Reece James in the left back position, Gusto taking up an attacking right ‘8’ position and Palmer playing as a left side attacking midfielder, it became clear that Maresca had re-jigged the team despite not changing many personnel.
One key figure that remained on the team-sheets despite the tactical re-jig was goalkeeper, Robert Sànchez.
From the beginning of the season, Enzo Maresca settled on the choice of Rob Sanchez as his number one ahead of new signing Jorgensen.
Maresca’s choices and decisions have hardly been questioned since he joined the West London outfit but with the recent performances of both goalies, it won’t take long before Maresca comes under huge scrutiny.
Coming off Jorgensen’s impressive showing that earned the coach’s praise mid-week away in Greece, the pressure was beginning to mount on Sanchez to perform.
However, Sanchez’s showing today against the Magpies left much to be desired.
One of Sanchez’s strengths as a goalkeeper is his ability with the ball, or so we are led to believe.
Completing just 20 of his attempted 40 passes, Sanchez was abysmal with the ball at his feet and he struggled to help the blues play out of Newcastle’s intense press.
Sanchez can be assured in possession, but this season he looks like a mistake waiting to happen.
In today’s game, he only completed 6/25 long balls, a truly horrific statistic.
Knowing the emphasis Maresca places on building-up from the back and the importance of the goalkeeper to his style of play, it remains to be seen how much longer Sanchez has to keep the faith of his manager.
Filip Jorgensen has the chance to win the manager’s trust come Wednesday as Newcastle host Chelsea at St. James’ park in the Carabao cup.
