Looking at Chelsea’s results from their pre-season tour of the United States, there could be a cause for concern.
While the final score is never what’s important in these friendly matches, a 4-0 defeat to London rivals Arsenal will absolutely worry some supporters.
The club’s lack of goals in the three games, including two fixtures against opposition they will have expected to walk over, will get many to think it could be the same story as last season in front of goal.
However, it’s fair to say there have been players all over the pitch underperforming, with Thomas Tuchel stating his displeasure at his side. With that said, there are three players who can take confidence from their varying amount of minutes going into next season.
Conor Gallagher
The midfielder may have originally feared for his minutes coming back to Stamford Bridge, following an impressive loan spell with Crystal Palace.
However, he has been one of the shining lights of an uninspiring tour, starring in midfield in a variety of systems with a number of different teammates alongside him.
His work-rate and ability to win the ball back has shown he can certainly feature for the Blues when needed this season. Given the unclear future of Jorginho and N’golo Kante, he may be utilised more than expected with an eye for the future.
Raheem Sterling
Despite not yet playing a full 90 minutes for the Blues, their new marquee signing has already showed exactly what he can bring to his new side.
His ability to drive at defences is unmatched by any of the club’s current wide options, and he has proven already that he is going to be crucial in attacks and counters for the Blues.
Supporters will just be hoping some players establish themselves as guaranteed starters alongside the Englishman, in order to begin to forge understandings and relationships up top.
Kalidou Koulibaly
The Senegalese star has not even played a half of football for the Blues, however his appearance in their friendly against Arsenal avoided further embarrassment as the game closed out.
He made an outstanding last-ditch challenge as the Gunners carved them open again, while also showing his passing with both feet looks set to be exactly what this level desires.
Koulibaly will almost certainly be starting against Everton, and the Blues will need his experience to help the current storm surrounding the vulnerability of the side pass.