The Blues have a realistic chance of securing an historic double this term, but will need these three players on form…
With Chelsea seven points clear in the Premier League, and in a strong position in the Champions League last 16 against Galatasaray, here’s the three players we think will be most important to the Blues’ chances of winning the competitions.
3) Nemanja Matic
Although he’s cup-tied for the Champions League, January signing Matic will likely start every Premier League match for Jose Mourinho’s side.
Since arriving, Matic has been quietly exceptional for the Blues. His immense physical stature gives Chelsea a presence in midfield, and he’s able to break up opposition play excellently. Matic’s positioning in front of the back four is a huge asset, and he proved with his wonderful performance against Manchester City in February that he can dominate the middle of the park against even the very best sides.
When he’s on his day, he helps the Blues keep possession while providing another line of defence, ahead of the ultra solid pairing of John Terry and Gary Cahill. Matic isn’t the most creative, or aesthetically pleasing player, but with Mourinho dealing in wins only, he’ll play a vital role.
2) Eden Hazard
The flying Belgian is Chelsea’s ‘go to’ man in the final third. He’s probably the most exciting dribbler in the Premier League, and the sight of him starting a mazy run down the left strikes fear into fullbacks.
Perhaps more importantly though, he’s the Blues’ top scorer in all competitions with 14. With Torres and Eto’o anything but prolific, if Hazard’s scoring totally dries up, the Blues may struggle for wins in tight matches.
Quite simply however, Hazard is Chelsea’s best player. If he plays well, they will always have a chance of winning – and this could be especially important in tight Champions League ties when the Blues need to create something out of nothing.
1) John Terry
Terry really is having one of his best ever seasons in a Chelsea shirt.
His side have only conceded 22 goals in the top flight, six less than Arsenal who have the next best defensive record. The Blues largely have the exceptional form of Terry to thank. He’s made regular last-ditch tackles, been very good in the air, and has marshaled the best defence in the country superbly.
If he can put in similarly heroic performances in the Champions League, Chelsea could definitely go all the way, especially with the tactical genius of Mourinho instructing them. In the Premier League, Chelsea are making a habit of not conceding goals, and winning matches in unspectacular fashion. Terry will be put in charge of making sure this continues.
