Alan Shearer isn’t convinced Chelsea have done enough in terms of recruitment to challenge for a title.
Just last month, Chelsea were coming off two brilliant results against Barcelona and Arsenal, with many putting them in the race for the Premier League title.
Fast forward to today, and that already feels like a bridge too far for Enzo Maresca’s side.
After losing to Aston Villa, Chelsea find themselves 13 points off the top with little to suggest that gap can be overcome in the second half of the season.
Shearer is ruling it out, and his reasoning might leave some at Cobham red in the face.
Why aren’t Chelsea killing off games? 👎
Chelsea have dropped 11 points from winning positions in home Premier League matches this season — four more than any other side.
— BBC Sport
Alan Shearer says Chelsea are still a couple of signings short
The Villa result was a hammer blow to Chelsea’s title aspirations. They have extended their lead in third and are now seen as the more serious contender.
Shearer sided with Maresca in his tussle with Chelsea a few weeks ago, seeing the situation as it is — the club haven’t given him enough.
Dissecting the latest round of league action on The Rest Is Football, he doubles down on his Chelsea stance.
Asked what Chelsea need to get back in contention, he responds: “For me, I think they’re a top quality centre-half away and a brilliant centre-forward away. So, I think they’re two two players away from me.”
Two high-profile strikers arrived at Stamford Bridge this summer, but the Newcastle legend isn’t convinced they can carry the mantle.
He continues: “I think I’m not saying that Pedro and Delap can’t do it, but I think to get to that elite level and challenge for the Premier League, then I would say they’d probably need a top-class centre-forward.
“I think at the moment they can beat any team on their day, but it’s just that consistency and that might bring that. I mean, there are not many Haalands around though, that’s for sure.”
Shearer’s not wrong. A world-class striker is something every team wants. Pedro could reach that elite level, but he’s not an out-and-out number nine. Delap’s fitness has prevented us from seeing his full potential. He’s still young.
A problem with Chelsea’s recruitment
Considering how much money was spent, it’s frustrating to see these needs ignored.
Levi Colwill’s injury was a massive blow, but there should be more quality to fall back on than what Maresca has in that position.
SCENARIO: You are one of Chelsea’s sporting directors and Todd Boehly has given you £60m to spend in January. Who are you signing?
Your potential shortlist could include:
- Kobbie Mainoo
- Mike Maignan
- Marc Guehi
As for the striker, it’s a symptom of a larger problem. Chelsea have cash to burn but elect to exclusively target young players. That strategy has reaped many rewards, but there are times when breaking policy would be the better option.
- READ MORE: How the Chelsea board really feel about Enzo Maresca’s squad ahead of January transfer window
Signing a proven, elite scorer could change the complexion of the side entirely. A player in their prime rather than one a few years off.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
