Three reasons to be positive about Chelsea despite defeat to Aston Villa, including Enzo Maresca’s ‘surprising’ decision

Add as preferred source on Google

Chelsea fans would be forgiven for being extremely negative about their current situation after their latest defeat in the Premier League.

The Blues were beaten 2-1 by Aston Villa, with them unable to capitalise on their early lead given to them by Enzo Fernandez.

Frustration was as clear on the pitch as it was off it. Cole Palmer was notably angry at both his own performance and what his teammates were doing as their poor run moved to two wins in 10 league games.

A lot of fingers were pointed at Filip Jorgensen for the defeat. The new number one fumbled a weak shot into the net in the final minutes.

READ MORE: Chelsea player ratings vs Aston Villa, Pedro Neto superb in new position but awful teammate gets 3/10

With Chelsea slipping away in their push for Champions League football, it is clear why there is cause for concern amongst those at Stamford Bridge that they will miss out on showing clear signs of progression under Enzo Maresca.

Three reasons for Chelsea fans to be positive after Aston Villa defeat

There were certainly positive signs at Stamford Bridge though, and Chelsea fans should not let another loss get in the way of what was an all-round positive performance.

The Chelsea Chronicle have listed three reasons why there should still be positivity around the Blues ahead of their next game against Southampton.

Pedro Neto stars up front

After a few weeks on indifferent displays on the wing, Pedro Neto put in his best display in a while in the new-look position of striker.

Maresca praised Neto’s performance, and his pace and determination was what created the goal in the opening exchanges.

The Blues have been desperately searching for a solution to their striker woes after Nicolas Jackson’s injury ruled him out until April.

While not a traditional number nine, the Portugal international stretched the Villa defence whenever he was freed in behind, and Maresca has an option which seems to work for now at least.

Reece James impressive in midfield

There was surprise to see both Malo Gusto and Reece James on the teamsheet at the weekend, with it unclear what system the Blues would be playing.

The club captain lined up in midfield alongside Fernandez and Moises Caicedo, and impressed with his array of passing and composure on the ball.

Jamie Redknapp said he was surprised to see James in midfield, however he handled himself well and offered the manager a new option in possession.

With the Blues waiting patiently for the return of Romeo Lavia from injury, Maresca finally has a third option he feels comfortable with using. He is clearly against starting Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Mathis Amougou at this stage.

Enzo Fernandez’s attacking brilliance unlocked

After a run of blanks in front of goal, Fernandez returned to the scoresheet for Chelsea with a tap in from a few yards out.

Recent games have seen the World Cup winner forced to play alongside fellow South American Caicedo, rather than be allowed to impact the attack as he did so well earlier in the season.

With James helping out with the defensive duties, this allowed Fernandez to offer more to assist the attack.

The Argentinian was clearly emotional as he went to applaud the Chelsea fans at the end of the game, and no one wants things to turn around more than him.

Getting the best out of one of the most expensive players in Premier League history is a good way for the Blues to get back on track.