Chelsea's defence:
Sevilla - 0.3 xG and 2 shots on target allowed
Man United - 0.7 xG and 4 shots on target allowed
Krasnodar - 0.6 xG and 3 shots on target allowed
Burnley - 0.4 xG and 0 shots on target allowed
Rennes - 0.5 xG and 2 shots on target allowed
Rock solid.
Sevilla - 0.3 xG and 2 shots on target allowed
Man United - 0.7 xG and 4 shots on target allowed
Krasnodar - 0.6 xG and 3 shots on target allowed
Burnley - 0.4 xG and 0 shots on target allowed
Rennes - 0.5 xG and 2 shots on target allowed
Rock solid.
Not only are Chelsea conceding very few chances, whatever chances we concede tend to be of low quality too. Opponents have no option but to take hopeful shots from long-range because they can't create good chances.
This is fully sustainable as long as we can keep players fit.
This is fully sustainable as long as we can keep players fit.
What has brought upon this change? Let's look at a few factors.
1. Lampard has become significantly more pragmatic in the way he sets up. More men behind the ball and fewer risks in possession.
2. Thiago Silva has an unshakeable aura that improves other defenders.
1. Lampard has become significantly more pragmatic in the way he sets up. More men behind the ball and fewer risks in possession.
2. Thiago Silva has an unshakeable aura that improves other defenders.
3. Most importantly, Edouard Mendy gives our defenders immense confidence. I have mentioned this in the past - the sheer presence of a good GK will discourage opponents from shooting and will indirectly play with their minds.
The main job now is to keep everyone fit.
The main job now is to keep everyone fit.