Jason Cundy thought ‘influential’ Chelsea player was ‘electric’ against Morecambe, he deserves to start in Premier League

Add as preferred source on Google

Jason Cundy was really impressed with one player in Chelsea’s third round FA Cup tie against Morecambe earlier.

For all of their dominance, Chelsea were unable to take the lead until the 40th minute when Tosin Adarabioyo’s deflected shot beat Harry Burgoyne.

They had a great chance to score before that after being awarded a penalty, but Christopher Nkunku missed from the spot.

The forward started the match despite his future being in doubt right now. If Nkunku does go on to depart this month, then Chelsea could sign Liam Delap as a replacement.

• READ MORE: Why Pedro Neto was absolutely fuming with Nicolas Jackson during Chelsea’s draw with Crystal Palace

Jason Cundy impressed with Pedro Neto’s pace and crossing

Pedro Neto has not lived up to expectations at Chelsea following his £54m move from Wolverhampton Wanderers last summer.

In 17 Premier League appearances this season, the winger has only scored one goal. However, he caught Cundy‘s attention in the Blues’ victory over Morecambe.

After one bit of brilliant play in the first half, Cundy said while commentating on the match for Chelsea’s official website (11/01/2025 at 15:03): “What a brilliant run from Neto. I see this… you haven’t seen it as many times in a blue shirt… where he drives from deep.

“His pace is electric and he’s got such body awareness. He knows when he toes it in front of you, his pace is going to get in front of the opposition and they can’t touch him.”

Following another excellent move later on, he then said (15:15): “Brilliant whipped in ball from the right-hand side from Neto. He’s been good! He’s been influential. It’s a brilliant whip.”

While Neto has underperformed a bit in a Chelsea shirt, it is still early days. A player of his quality should still come good.

Should Pedro Neto start against Bournemouth?

Chelsea’s next game is against Bournemouth on Tuesday. Enzo Maresca‘s side will be desperate for a win, having failed to pick up a victory in their last four top-flight outings.

Noni Madueke was not even included in Chelsea’s matchday squad for the Morecambe tie, so he could be in line to start against Andoni Iraola’s side.

However, albeit in a game versus League Two opposition, Neto definitely did enough to retain his spot in the first XI.

The Portuguese was a real threat on the right flank with his pace and crossing, while Madueke’s form lately has not been great.

The 22-year-old has not scored in his last five matches. Of course, Neto has not been finding the back of the net either, but again, he looked dangerous against Morecambe.