Chelsea’s game against Galatasaray was always going to be important, but after the debacle of defeat at Aston Villa at the weekend, it now takes on even greater prominence. A resounding victory will reinvigorate the team ahead of the upcoming vital Arsenal clash, but a draw or even the unthinkable defeat that would lead to elimination from this season’s Champions’ League competition could be a terminal blow to the Blues’ season.
With this in mind, manger Jose Mourinho will no doubt have his team fired up for a game which will carry massive emotional undertones as Didier Drogba returns to Stamford Bridge for what will inevitably be a massively emotional occasion for both player and club. Mourinho will need to have a care for ensuring that his players mind is firmly fixed on the result and eyes on the prize. Any kind of distraction could mean curtains for their ambitions in the competition.
The Blues’ performances of late have hardly shown any consistency, being up and down more often that an umbrella on a rainy day. On some days they have played with an exuberance that made them worthy title favourites as they topped the league. On other days, such as that at Villa Park, they can look ordinary and uninspired. Giving the appearance of a team that thinks it only has to turn up to win. The folly of such an approach was a lesson rudely issued at Villa Park.
A major concern for Mourinho ahead of the game will be his striker. Although a headache all through the season, the game at Villa Park brought it into stark contrast as Fernando Torres turned in a display incomparable to the man that once terrorised defences when wearing Liverpool red. Where that player has gone is a conundrum that seems even beyond Mourinho to resolve, but getting a cutting edge to his forward line for the remainder of the season has to be a high priority and it may be that an outing for Demba Ba could be on the cards this evening.
In a game likely to be overflowing with emotions, I think Mourinho will have enough magic in his preparations to cajole the Blues to a win, perhaps 20-0 or 3-1. Don’t be surprised however if there are a few flutters on the way, and an elimination would not be the biggest surprise in the world. Chelsea fans will be more than aware of the potential danger offered by the Turkish team’s striker.
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Source: DSG
