There are many that view the annual Community Shield fixture as nothing more than a glorified friendly, with little riding on it.
However, following yesterday’s 1-0 defeat at the hands of the Gunners, Chelsea centre-back Gary Cahill has admitted that Arsenal will push the champions all the way this season.
Speaking to the Evening Standard, the England international is full of praise when it comes to the men from North London:
“They’ve started well, they’ve got a good squad and I think they’ll be one of many pushing at the top this season,” said Cahill.
“I’m sure everyone has that belief at the start of the season. People talk and talk, but the bottom line is when the season starts.”
Arsenal sunk the Blues yesterday at Wembley Stadium, a sublime strike from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain being the difference maker. But for now, Cahill and the rest of the Chelsea players have to put Arsenal and the Community Shield behind them, and focus on the next goal.
Fiorentina are up next, and then the season will kick off for real, at home to Swansea City.
“We’re confident, we have a good squad and still have another game on Wednesday, and more time to train before we start. We’ll be strong, but it’s a tough league and everyone else will be strong as well.”
