Gary Neville was absolutely certain that Romelu Lukaku will be the key to any attempt Chelsea make on reclaiming the Premier League trophy.
Speaking on Sky Sports yesterday, Neville anticipated a joyous return to Stamford Bridge for the Belgian centre-forward this year.
Lukaku watched on whilst his soon-to-be teammates smashed three past Crystal Palace on Saturday, as the countdown to his second debut continues.
He could be in place to start against Arsenal this Sunday, which would be a perfect occasion to mark his Blues homecoming.
RONALDO NEEDS TO STOP WHINING.
Although Thomas Tuchel’s team managed sufficiently without the 28-year-old last weekend, they will be an altogether troubling proposition with him leading their attack.
Neville anticipates lots from Lukaku
“They (Chelsea) are going to be serious this season,” admitted Neville in light of the Blues’ opening day victory over Palace.
“They were last season, but really serious in terms of the Premier League.
“Lukaku makes them very, very dangerous.
“For Chelsea, he will score a tonne of goals. He is perfect for that club.
“I know he’s been there once before, but this time he comes back with maturity, with experience, with hundreds of goals under his belt.
“I talk about gold signings; I have no doubt that it will be a success and that he will do the 20, 25, 30 goals.
“I’ve got no doubts with Romelu Lukaku, that he will go into that Chelsea team and make them real challengers for the Premier League title.
“He’s a game-changer for them in terms of top four, to really pushing Manchester City, Liverpool and Manchester United in terms of going for that title.”
It was clear as day the deficiencies Chelsea needed to wipe clean if they wanted to contest City for their crown
Keeping out goals was fine, but scoring them was an issue throughout Tuchel’s maiden campaign in charge.
Lukaku’s arrival should put an end to that dilemma, thanks to his previous record with Inter Milan, Everton and to some extent, Manchester United.
Not since 2010 has a player for the Blues hit over 30 goals in a single term across all competitions.
That was Didier Drogba’s claim; if Chelsea’s new striker can emulate his idol’s numbers, then the possibilities are endless.