Solanke just one of many promising strikers.
Tammy Abraham has had a wonderful season, fighting it out for top goal-scorer in all competitions with Dominic Solanke. Both of them have a ratio better than a goal every game. Starting the game on the right wing, Tammy combined his power with his technique for his first of two goals with a precision touch to control the ball and a powerful half volley to the top corner. His second goal showed his positioning, getting himself in the right place to scissor kick a headed pass from the corner kick underneath the goalkeeper. Both strikers have been excellent throughout the season, yet Abraham will definitely be another name on everybody’s lips in the near future.
Colkett and Clarke-Salter needn’t go unnoticed.
Charlie Colkett is what I would describe Iniesta reborn. He has incredible close control, impeccable vision and the ability to play the passes he sees. Aside from one mistake which almost lead to a goal for Man City, he was all over the pitch, dictating the tempo and driving the team forward. Everything goes through him and it cannot be understated as to how important he is to the way Chelsea play. Jake Clarke-Salter is another highly un-noticed player in my opinion. Everybody is talking about Andreas Christensen being the next big thing, yet Jake Clarke-Salter is the better player I believe. His composure on the ball, understanding of the game and his physical presence nullify the majority of threats towards the Chelsea goal. Hopefully very soon he’ll be taken out of Christensen’s shadow and noticed for how brilliant he actually is.
Tactical game on point.
Within the first few minutes of watching the game it became very obvious that Chelsea had adopted a high back line with a high press. As soon as they lost possession they were hounding the opposition to win the ball back high up the pitch. This lead to numerous errors from the Man City defence, mostly from the goalkeeper who looked extremely uncomfortable all night. It’s still something that could do with a bit of work, as the high line defence got caught a few times, but I’m confident that they’re moving in the right direction. Chelsea proved way too physical for Man City on the night, who just couldn’t compete with the size and strength of the young blues.
In Sync with the first team.
As Chelsea’s first team look well on their way to completing a double with the Premier League and the League Cup, Chelsea’s youth teams are also. After winning the UEFA Youth League last Monday, the academy have one foot through the door towards winning the Youth Cup as well. This dominance can only be a positive thing, showing the Chelsea boardroom that we have some of the best youngsters in the world playing for our youth teams, which should defiantly put some more pressure on giving youth a chance. Not only this, these youngsters are also gaining that fighting spirit, to win considerably and grind out results when needed. Playing finals year after year will help their confidence and mentality which will be an important attribute to have when they eventually make it into senior football.
