Glenn Hoddle believes Thiago Silva is the only player who can be described as a guaranteed starter under Graham Potter at Chelsea.
The Blues were unable to pick up three points in the west London derby against Fulham on Friday despite debuts from Enzo Fernandez and Noni Madueke and Reece James’ return.
A top-four finish is still mathematically possible, but Chelsea, who now sit ninth with 30 points — nine points behind four-placed Manchester United, are fighting an uphill battle.
Hoddle pointed out that Blues manager Potter needs time to integrate the new signings with Thiago Silva the only one deserving of a guaranteed starting role.
“Even going into the transfer window he [Potter] was still trying to find his system and balance in all departments,” the former Blues midfielder told the Premier League Productions (via the Daily Mail).
“I think Thiago Silva is a shoo-in, he’s a must, but everyone else, it’s a mish-mash.
“There’s a lot of work to do.
“He’s got some lovely material to make a beautiful suit, but it’s going to take more time with so many new players.”
In Potter’s defence, Chelsea’s injury issues have prevented him from being able to field a consistent line-up, let alone a balanced one.
The January signings are supposed to help fill the void left by these injury absences, but as Hoddle pointed out, these players need time to adapt as well.
It is perhaps true that Silva is currently the only “shoo-in” to start for now, although when fit, Reece James is arguably in this category, too.
Keep up to date with all the latest Chelsea news and opinion by following The Chelsea Chronicle’s Facebook and Twitter accounts.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
