Chelsea’s defence has been dodgy all season – some good games, some bad games, but a lot of clean sheets thrown away.For a long period that didn’t hurt them too much, as the attackers were

Chelsea have a rare free midweek coming up, which could help them steady the ship and focus on strengthening their top-four credentials

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has hit back at criticism over his substitutions in recent matches following their draw to Crystal Palace.

Chelsea have slipped to fourth in the Premier League after dropping two points against Crystal Palace and Enzo Maresca is determined to help his side rediscover their previous form

But it is Chelsea’s lack of control during matches that is providing a test for him now. The 2-0 defeat at Ipswich Town means Chelsea have lost successive games for the first time under Maresca. They have failed to score in successive away games too and ended 2024 picking up just one point from their final three league matches.

New players have settled into their surroundings and the league, and have come to terms with their price tags and are doing what they do best - simply playing football. Marc Cucur