The problem with Chelsea

On paper Chelsea have got it all. Great players, a great squad, with a mix of European talent and English backbone. The pre-requisites for success are there.

But as we've been seeing over the past few weekends they are struggling and I cant help but think its down to one individual. No, not ‘Big’ Phil. Im talking about Steve Clarke, an ex-teammate and great friend of mine. Chelsea have been famed for the stubbornness of their defence in recent years. Now, they seem to be leaking soft goals. When I was playing at the club, Steve was a massive figure on the training ground, well respected and at the heart of all that was good about Chelsea’s defence. Now he’s gone, that steeliness is and ruthless rearguard appear vulnerable. And is it just a coincidence that his new club, West Ham Utd, are unbeaten in eight?

Another big blow is the absence of Michael Essien. This man is the embodiment of the modern midfielder; quick, strong, and gets himself on the scoresheet. His experience and dynamism is being sorely missed.

The other obvious factor is Scolari. The honeymoon period is certainly over and he’s quickly learning that the Premier League is a harsh environment. The pressure and constant media scrutiny is a world away from the different pace of national team management. And the off field wrangling is having a drip-down effect to the team. It’s the same situation with title rivals, Liverpool, who also have off field debates raging about ownership, contracts, responsibilties.. Compare this with the harmonious spirit at Manchester Utd and Aston Villa. They both keep winning …and with very little fuss from the moneymen upstairs.