What can Chelsea improve after 4-1 win against Panathinaikos

The Blues started the game slow, but came all guns blazing in the second half to finish the game with a dominant result.

Despite a brilliant win in Greece, the team still needs to improve in certain areas to return to its former glory.

Defending

Chelsea have been one of the best attacks in the Premier League. However, the team have not been able to translate the same to the backline and this seems to cost them time and again.

In the game against Panathinaikos, Chelsea were looking comfortable with a 4-0 lead, but they conceded a goal which should have been dealt with in a better fashion.

The free flowing Blues have been very gracious allowing opposition attacks to score on them in recent games.

They have conceded eight goals in their last five games, which showcases their lack of defensive stability.

Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana are the two names that have started for the Blues in the Premier League. Although they do look formidable as a pair and have a lot of potential, the lack of composure is there for everyone to see.

Maresca will have to work on defending as teams could punish them as the season progresses if they continue showing weaknesses.

Shot Conversions

Chelsea can create plenty of chances during the game. However, the gap between the club and the other top sides is the lack of clinicality.

During the game against Panathinaikos, Chelsea had 39 touches inside the Greek sides penalty box and 10 shots.

These are the numbers that the team replicates regularly, which show that there is the ability to score more goals.

Although Panathinaikos was a positive result, Chelsea could get found out if they continue miscuing their chances in opposition areas.

Transitional Play

Chelsea are one of the best teams on the counter-attack, but the same cannot be said about its transitional defence.

Often, the Blues seem to be on the receiving end of terrific attacks from opponents and the goal scored by Panathinaikos was just another instance of that.

The defence let Facundo Pellestri walk into the box unmarked, which resulted in him finding the net easily. While this may not have cost the team on this occasion, it could, most certainly against opponents of higher quality.

Better starts

Chelsea have had struggles with starting games well and that was the case against Panathinaikos as well. The team were close to conceding a goal inside the first five minutes, but were saved by good fortune and saves from keeper Filip Jorgensen.

They will have to find a way to tackle this problem as any other day they could see themselves in trouble. Although they do tend to make their way back into the game, a good start most certainly is vital in important fixtures.