Chelsea Season Preview: Midfielders
With the departure of Michael Ballack, Deco and Joe Cole, Chelsea’s midfield has started looking a little empty. And defeats against Germany, Frankfurt and Hamburg in addition to a defeat against last season’s runners up, Manchester United in pre season friendlies, only signifying the intensity of how badly Chelsea need to bring in reinforcements.
When Michael Ballack first arrived at Chelsea, he was accused of being too lazy, and it was predicted that Ballack was to Chelsea what Gerrard is to England, simply put – he couldn’t play with Frank Lampard. There was a debate as to who would lead the midfield attack, with most in favor of Lampard, who had proved himself worthy on countless occasions. However, when partnered together, Ballack and Lampard proved to be a successful duo. Lampard played a more attack oriented role, and Ballack played defensively. But with him gone, Chelsea need a solid player to fill his place.
Yossi Benayoun has been brought in from Liverpool this summer, even though he does not seem like an adequate replacement for either Ballack or Joe Cole, who went to Liverpool on a free transfer. Benayoun joined Chelsea in the hopes of winning trophies, having not won any for the last eight years with West Ham or Liverpool. But if Chelsea don’t manage to win any silverware this season, it might just be because of him. The so called Benayoun curse might not really be a curse as much as, his lack of commitment, inadequate performance and the intensity with which he blames the manager for his poor form.
To save their season, manager Ancelotti has to ensure that Brazilian youngster, Ramires is brought to the club as soon as possible. It was planned to have Ramires at Stamford Bridge before the Community Shield match against Manchester United, but that was not possible because of an incomplete medical test. A recent statement released by Ray Wilkins, the assistant manager stated, “Nothing has been finalized as yet, but we are certainly in the mix for Ramires,” he told reporters. He also mentioned how they were hopeful to have the 23 year old in time for Chelsea’s opening fixture against West Brom, so he could make an appearance.
The Blues might still survive with their current, depleted midfield if they don’t face injury problems. The London club has been unlucky with injuries, losing crucial players at crucial times, the main reason for their failure to continue their winning run in the Premier League after the 2005-2006 season. If Essien is fit and available for the entire season then the title is as good as Chelsea’s. The Ghanaian midfielder performs the holding midfielder role to perfection, he not only makes up for any mistakes the defenders make, but also feeds the ball to the midfielders ahead of him with perfect one touch passes.
Malouda is another player who is now essential to the Blues. Upon his arrival, he wasn’t expected to stay long but because of injuries he got his opportunity to play and proved his worth. He has developed since then, usually playing on the left flank and often getting into goal scoring positions. He is quick on his feet and does well to get past opponent defenders. His dedication and hard work has made him indispensible for the club, and he seems to be enjoying having a permanent place in the starting eleven.
Last but not least, Frank Lampard, undoubtedly the best player in the current Chelsea squad. In the absence of Captain John Terry, Lampard has proved to be an exceptional leader, and otherwise an effective vice captain. Lampard is one of the few midfielders who manage 20 plus goals in a season, and Lampard has been averaging some 20 goals over the last 4-5 seasons. Last season, when the Blues won the Premier League and the FA Cup and broke countless records in the process, Lampard achieved a personal milestone, scoring 27 goals – more than he has ever scored. It is expected that Lampard will only get better this season, but that remains to be seen, and the wait won’t be long since Chelsea play West Brom in the Premier League this Sunday.
Tags: