5 Problems Chelsea need to address before playing Crystal Palace
Chelsea’s players have looked a shadow of themselves this season To say that Chelsea have had a bad start to the 2015/16 Premier League season would be a gross understatement. The defending champions have looked a shadow of their once impeccable selves. Mourinho's men have let in goals left, right and center while being uncharacteristically lackluster in the middle of the field.On Saturday, the Blues now face the daunting task of welcoming a Crystal Palace side who are brimming with confidence after beating Shrewsbury in the League Cup this week to add to their win against Villa on the weekend. Facing Palace is never an easy task and given the start to the season the Blues have had, it has the potential to be a very long, troublesome day for the Chelsea players.If Mourinho wants the occasion of his 100th home league game at Chelsea to be a joyful one, he and Chelsea need to look at these 5 things before their game against the Eagles.
#1 Drop Ivanovic
The Serbian right back has been a mainstay in Chelsea’s squad under Mourinho, gradually becoming part of his second generation of “untouchables”. Ivanovic provided a constant threat up front last season, latching onto oncoming corners and churning out crosses for Diego Costa in the box.
Whilst not being as prolific in his defensive duties last season, Ivanovic still provided that much needed extra muscle and experience to Chelsea’s backline when they most needed it. This season however, it seems age has caught up with the 31-year-old Serbian. He no longer possesses that zeal whilst going forward and has become more unguided while tracking back.
By far the weakest link in Chelsea’s already crumbling backline, Ivanovic was torn to shreds by Callum McManaman in the match against West Brom. “Branna”, as Ivanovic is fondly known among the Chelsea faithful, may be one of Mourinho’s favourites, but his performances this season leave Mourinho with a difficult but straightforward choice to make if he wants to sure up his defence – drop the Serb and bring in Azpilicueta on the right whilst giving new signing Baba Rahman a chance to prove himself.