Jeff Stelling has now claimed that he was really surprised that Mauricio Pochettino didn’t start two Chelsea players during yesterday’s game against Everton.
He told TalkSPORT (11/12/23) that he didn’t know why both Raheem Sterling and Levi Colwill were named on the bench for the defeat at Goodison Park yesterday.
Colwill and Sterling were two of the players who didn’t survive the defeat to Manchester United, however their fortunes did not change on Merseyside.
The defender’s time on the bench did not last too long though, with him being called upon to replace Reece James in the first half.
The club captain was forced off with another hamstring issue which could see him set for a long spell on the sidelines again.
Sterling was also used off the bench, however he was brought on way too late to have any impact on proceedings.
Stelling surprised at Colwill and Sterling benching
Stelling has now said that he is perplexed as to why the duo did not start the game.
He said: “I mean I looked at that side and I know it’s been a busy week and they’ve played three games in a week to all intents and purposes.
“But Colwill, no Sterling, Thiago Silva’s more understandable to be on the substitutes bench of course he is at his age. But I was surprised by the absence of Colwill and Sterling.”
Fellow pundit Ally McCoist added: “Absolutely, you could argue that Sterling’s been their player this year, he’s certainly started the season really, really well. I just can’t believe the goals they’re losing.”
Team selection will be interesting next week when Pochettino looks to ease some pressure on him with the home game against Sheffield United.
With injuries that occurred yesterday, it would be expected that both England internationals are back amongst the starters next week.
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