EXCL: Petrovic pursuit, Balogun discussions, Transfer plans for final days, Lukaku to Saudi possible - mentally checked out of Chelsea, Ziyech details, Remaining outgoings, and more...
The Ben Jacobs Chelsea column!
Mauricio Pochettino is still waiting for his first Chelsea win following a 3-1 loss at West Ham on Sunday. The hosts battled to victory even though Chelsea controlled the majority of the game. Enzo Fernandez’ missed penalty proved costly.
Chelsea also didn’t take advantage of the extra man for almost half-an-hour after Nayef Aguerd was foolishly sent off. But all credit to West Ham. James Ward-Prowse got a couple of assists and Michail Antonio’s finish for West Ham’s second goal was superb.
It sadly wasn’t an ideal debut for Moises Caicedo. He looked rusty and gave away a careless late penalty that allowed Lucas Paqueta to finish off the game.
However, there were positives as well. Carney Chukwuemeka got his first goal for the club, showing neat footwork followed by a confident finish. It’s a real shame he went off injured. Pochettino confirmed after the game that we’ll know more about the severity in the next few days.
I also thought Raheem Sterling was brilliant, especially in the first half. He looks fit, hungry and is going to be important for Chelsea if they are to qualify for the Champions League.
Chelsea now just need to forget about the loss and focus on beating Luton – a game they must win to avoid an indifferent start.
By the time that match comes around we’ll only have a few days of the transfer window left. Chelsea are still working on a No.2 keeper, having placed a bid for New England Revolution’s Djordje Petrovic.
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