‘If he start him Chelsea will have double goal” – Mauricio Pochettino should still start £110k-a-week Chelsea star despite news this week

‘If he start him Chelsea will have double goal” – Mauricio Pochettino should still start £110k-a-week Chelsea star despite news this week

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino finds himself at a crucial juncture as key players return from the injury list just in time for the upcoming busy festive period.

While the squad gains depth, one position that has faced persistent challenges is the center-back role, grappling with a string of injuries throughout the season. The absence of Benoit Badiashile, recovering from an injury sustained last season, forced Pochettino to carefully reintegrate him into the squad, a process observed with caution.

With Wesley Fofana still sidelined, Pochettino has heavily relied on stalwart defenders, and notably, Thiago Silva has shouldered the defensive responsibilities, starting every Premier League game this season. The Brazilian’s consistent presence has been a cornerstone of the defensive line, exceeding the initial expectations set by the manager.

As the festive fixtures loom on the horizon, rotation becomes imperative, but the center-back position presents a challenge. Despite the return of Levi Colwill, who is back in training after recovering from an injury, the competition for the left-back role intensifies.

Thiago Silva, the defensive linchpin, has been a constant figure in the starting XI. While the news of Colwill’s fitness is encouraging, Pochettino faces a delicate decision. The young England international, who had started every Premier League game until his recent injury setback, now contends not only with his recovery but with the impressive resurgence of Marc Cucurella.

Cucurella, enjoying a renaissance in his Chelsea career, emerges as a compelling option for the left-back position. The manager, balancing the need for rotation and the demand for consistent performance, stands at the crossroads of tactical decisions as the Blues prepare for the fixture against Newcastle.

The intricate dance of squad management unfolds, and Pochettino, armed with options, navigates the labyrinth of choices in the pursuit of defensive stability and attacking prowess.