“CHELSEA CHAMPIONS, CHELSEA CHAMPIONS!”
Sounds good, eh? Sounds about right to me.
The Premier League trophy’s vacation in Manchester has come to an end and he (I’ve concluded that the trophy is infact a male) has packed his bags and is coming home. Mourinho’s men have finished the League in amazing style as Chelsea were crowned Champions yesterday with 3 games to go. On top of that, in just 9 days we will hold the record for the longest number of days at the top of the table (overtaking Manchester United’s previous record of 262 days).
Mourinho’s 3rd and Chelsea’s 4th Premier League title has been utterly satisfying. And, to be perfectly honest, was it ever going to be any different? From day one we possessed balance, composure, physicality, power, style, and much, much more. You could say we’ve been that good that we made it a one-horse-race for ourselves, but of course we must take into consideration the lack of consistency on behalf of our rivals. Sure, we’ve had our ups and downs throughout the season, but all-in-all, we’ve had a thoroughly impressive season. I for one have learned a lot about Mourinho’s men…
1. We must never let Hazard go
He just gets better and better, doesn’t he? Our little Belgian has just experienced his most successful (and I’d like to think enjoyable) season as a professional footballer. Chelsea’s number 10 was crowned PFA Player of The Year recently, and has finished off this campaign in style by winning his 1st Premier League with Chelsea. I’m sure we’re all on the same wavelength here: we cannot let him leave. Hazard’s importance to our team is something that can’t be underestimated.
They say you should never rely heavily on a player or two, but the fact is, we need him, now more than ever! With Hazard improving himself game by game, it’s not a question of if, but WHEN will he be regarded as the best? His incredible first-touch, pinpoint passes, mezmerizing dribbles and key defensive work has been absolutely vital to our success. He is a truly unique player with a rare playing style.
2. Fabregas is Magic
You knew I was going to say that, didn’t you? Jokes aside, Cesc Fabregas has also been vital to our success. So far he has ranked up an amazing 17 assists from Central Midfield, and he’s just 3 off matching Thierry Henry’s assist record of 20. Not bad I guess. Alongside Matic, Cesc poses something completely different. He isn’t your typical run-of-the-mill CDM, that runs and runs and puts in double figure tackles every game. He is ever, absolutely great in that position.
Many argue he should play further forward, but either way I’m more than happy. His long range passing and his overall vision is among the best there is, he is involved in all our attacks and is thriving under Mourinho. Let’s not forget that he can really put in a defensive shift too. As of late, Fabregas has been chasing the ball more, putting in tackles and making some key interceptions. Things can only get better for him.
3. John Terry IS a fine wine.
Cliche alert. I’m sorry, but it’s true. We all know him as ‘Captain Leader Legend’ , but he’s also arguably the greatest Centre Back that the Premier League has ever seen! He really has gotten better with age. But at his age I’m sure we’re all dreading his retirement as he was one of the best. But also brings a sort of curious nature to us as to who could ever replace him at the heart of Chelsea. I’m sure there’s someone out there.
Terry’s contribution this season has been as good as ever: he’s added goals (now the joint top scoring PL defender ever), and has read the game like a simple children’s book. It’s no surprise that he played EVERY minute of EVERY Premier League game this season.
4. Costa is vital
We all know that Chelsea’s strength-in-depth has been of huge importance, but without our killer up front, we have not been as dangerous. Diego is the perfect striker for Chelsea, fast, physical, top finisher and ruthless, and let’s not forget passionate. Sounds a bit like a certain Didier Drogba in his prime, no? Maybe it’s just me. But I firmly believe we have found our killer in Costa, the same killer we were lacking for the last few seasons. No doubt he’ll come back better next season, and set the Premier League alight once more!
5. Sell Willian? No way!
I know that was never really up for debate, but many fans are guilty of criticising our Brazilian winger. I for one didn’t believe he was the man for us. I thought he wasn’t good enough. I thought he added nothing defensively. Boy, was I wrong. Willian’s performances as of late have rightfully earned him a MOTM award. He has been in sensational form, and I take back every negative comment I made about him.
Does he have to improve and become more consistent? Absolutely, but my oh my what a player he will be. His pace on the counter is frightening, his quick turns are a joy to watch, and his defensive attributes really put a smile on my face. He’s a worker, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
The question beckons: who are we going to buy this summer? With a number of huge names popping on the ‘possible signing’ radar, we will have to go about our business exactly the same way as we did last summer, quickly and effectively. I have no doubt that Jose knows exactly who and what he wants to improve our team and overall squad, but who do we want to see? Griezmann? Koke? Pedro? Varane? Pogba?
Who knows. But one thing’s for certain, we do need some additions. At times in the season we lacked something, what we lacked is something I’m not sure of, nut it was certainly something. A number 10? A CDM and play Cesc 10? A right back? A left back? A centre back? Another striker? I guess we’ll just have to wait and see, time will tell!
For now, let’s enjoy the rest of the celebrations, and the rest of the season. Oh, and just incase you may have forgotten, let’s remember that one Steven Gerrard and his team must give us a guard of honour in our next game. Rubbing salt in the wounds of poor Stevie would be an understatement! Enjoy.
