Chelsea’s new assistant coach Michael Emelano, was usurped for the Blues’ Champions League match with Zilina last night after just one match next to manager Carlo Ancelotti.
His spot was occupied by Paul Clement. Ray Wilkins’ absence was tangible at Stamford Bridge, and stand-in skipper Didier Drogba admitted that the players miss the dismissed No. 2.
According to The Telegraph, Drogba refused to lay the blame for Chelsea’s slump on the departure, saying: “Of course we miss Ray. But the players are still the same. If we are losing it is not because Ray has gone, it is down to the players.”
Ancelotti delighted with McEachran.
Carlo Ancelotti heaped praise on teenage midfielder Josh McEachran following the youngster’s performance in the Blues’ 2-1 victory over Zilina in the Champions League.
The highly rated academy product helped the Premier League champions overturn a one goal deficit to clinch top spot of their group, and Ancelotti couldn’t have been happier.
According to Sporting Life, he said: “I think Josh McEachran can play every game. He showed his quality. He was good defensively, won a lot of tackles. And, obviously, with the ball he’s fantastic. He can play it short or long without problem. He played with personality and I’m happy with his performance. He has to grow, he has to improve, but he’s ready to play.”
Blues in Vidal link.
Reports in the media suggest that Chelsea are ready to bolster their weakened midfield with the signing of Arturo Vidal in January.
The Chilean international, who currently plays for Bayer Leverkusen, has netted five goals so far this term and is attracting the attentions of clubs throughout Europe due to his versatility.
Sportingo claims that he may not be considered an automatic first choice should he move to Stamford Bridge, at least not once regular first choice stars Frank Lampard and Michael Essien return. A £10m fee has been mentioned in order to secure the player’s signature.