The FA Cup might be the only thing left for Chelsea to play for this summer. Their Champions League qualification hopes are as good as over. The Blues have slipped down to eighth and based on current form, it would not come as any surprise if they finish in the bottom half of the table.
The FA Cup could be a route for them into the Europa League. Of course, for that to happen, they will have to win the competition, which is easier said than done, especially with Manchester City still in the mix.
Chelsea’s next game is the semi-finals against Leeds United at Wembley. The Peacocks are in good form. And they will have to be considered favourites for this matchup.
As for Chelsea, they will be hoping that a fresh start under Calum McFarlane gives them the bounce that they need. In his earlier interim run, the manager did produce an impressive draw against Manchester City but then lost to Fulham. So, he still searches for his first win in charge of the club.
Chelsea handed double boost for game against Leeds United
There is some good news on the injury front for Chelsea when it comes to the upcoming semi-final against Leeds United. It looks like there is a possibility that both Cole Palmer and Joao Pedro could be fit enough to start on the day.
According to football.london, McFarlane said when asked if there was a chance that Palmer and Pedro would start vs Leeds:
Yeah, we hope so. They’re going to train tomorrow and we’ll make a call after that. So, yeah, we’re hopeful.
Double return could be a major boost for McFarlane’s side
Chelsea could do with all the help they can get right now. And Palmer and Pedro are two of the best that the Blues have right now. So, their respective returns would come as a boost for the club’s chances.
Of course, Palmer has not been at his best for a long time now. We have seen glimpses here and there. But overall, he seems to be missing that sharpness, instinct and decision-making that made him so special in his early days at Chelsea. One would hope that this is just a result of him trying to rediscover his rhythm after several injuries.
As for Pedro, he had started brilliantly during the Liam Rosenioe era. But as his form faded, so did that of the team. Now, with the Englishman no longer here, expect the Brazilian to push for goals even harder.
