Gary Neville was so impressed with what £25m Chelsea player did in first half vs Manchester United

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Chelsea’s defence did not have too much work to do in the first half of their clash against Manchester United.

Manchester United’s backline was not really tested by Chelsea‘s attack in the first 45 minutes either despite Enzo Maresca putting out such a strong forward line.

Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson, Noni Madueke and Pedro Neto all started for the Blues at Old Trafford.

While Robert Sanchez and his defence did not have to do too much, there was one moment where the goalkeeper was called into action. Before the game, Maresca made it clear that Sanchez was his No.1.

• READ MORE: Jason Cundy now wants Chelsea to sign ‘top-drawer’ goalkeeper to replace Robert Sanchez

Gary Neville on Robert Sanchez punch

Sanchez has come in for a lot of criticism this season. For example, Sanchez’s decision-making was recently questioned by David Seaman.

However, before he gave away a penalty, the 26-year-old did well when one dangerous ball came into the box in the first half, punching it away.

Discussing Sanchez’s punch on Sky Sports (03/11/2024 at 16:50), former United defender Gary Neville said: “It was really good from Sanchez because it was a good ball in from Bruno Fernandes.”

Robert Sanchez needs to show more consistency

Sanchez’s goalkeeping can be confident and strong at times, like in the first half against United.

However, the Spaniard has a big mistake in him, such as the penalty he conceded. In Chelsea’s 4-2 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion in September, Sanchez also made two costly errors that resulted in the Seagulls scoring twice.

If Sanchez can cut that out of his game, he could become a top goalkeeper for Chelsea and prove to be a bargain. The Blues only paid Brighton £25m for his services.

If not, then you would expect the Spain international to eventually be replaced. Chelsea have a lot of faith in Mike Penders, who will move to west London next summer, while Filip Jorgensen remains in the first-team squad.

For now, Sanchez seems to have the trust of Maresca, and he can earn more of it if he can just start to show a bit more consistency while ridding his game of those big mistakes.