Chelsea return from the international break with a trip to Bournemouth in matchday five of the Premier League. The west London side are coming off the heels of a frustrating defeat at home to Nottingham Forest, while AFCB managed a draw away at Brentford. If CFC and Pochettino want to regain their forward momentum, here are three players he must start.
Raheem Sterling of Chelsea
A month ago, this name may have been at the bottom of almost everyone’s list, but it seems Sterling has found some of his old form recently. With two goals to his name, Sterling has been looking dangerous with his runs and dribbling into the box. He has made several key plays and could easily have more goals and assists to his name already if certain things went his way. Each time he gets the ball, he looks poised to strike at the defense with pace. So far this season, he’s done a very good job.
This is exactly the type of attack needed in this match. To drive at Bournemouth early and get them on their backfoot. It’s no secret that Chelsea’s front line has lacked venom for sometime now and with more injuries than we can count it is very lucky Sterling has been playing up to par. Getting at a team like the Cherries, who have surrendered eight goals so far, early and often will be key in this match. Sterling is the player to be able to get that done.
Enzo Fernandez
If we’re talking about unlocking defenses a creative midfield player is necessary. Luckily, Chelsea have one of the best midfielders in the world right now in Enzo Fernandez. His passing and vision have been nothing short of awe inspiring so far this season. Unfortunately, the end product has not been there. However, the chances are there.
Enzo is constantly playing balls into the final third and trying to find that one pass to get attackers in behind the defense. Bournemouth won’t sit as far back as Nottingham Forest did and this is where the World Cup-winner can make them pay. Having a midfielder with his level of vision will be crucial in not just this match, but for the remainder of the season. Enzo has a gift and if given the opportunity, he will make defenses pay. The midfielder is a must start for Pochettino, not only for this clash but as long as he is healthy.
Mykhailo Mudryk
Having one good attacking winger does not mean the whole field is covered. With Sterling holding down the fort so far on the right, it is time for Pochettino to give Mudryk his chance on the left. His few cameos this season haven’t been much to write home about, but there is talent in the young Ukrainian. However, he needs minutes to show what he can do.
If Blues supporters want a fast paced attacker to go at this opponents’ defenders, Mudryk offers just that. He is unbelievably quick and loves to run at the opposition. He also has linked up nicely with Nicholas Jackson on a few occasions. This is a prime opportunity to give Mudryk a decent amount of game time to show what he can do. What he does with that time will remain to be seen, but faith must be put in him before it is too late.