Chelsea's defensive issues persist despite attacking potential

Chelsea's attacking prowess under Xabi Alonso has been a focal point, with the team managing to score in every match this season. However, their defensive frailties remain a significant concern, as they have now gone 20 Premier League games without a clean sheet. This ongoing issue has plagued the club for some time, suggesting that simply adding attacking talent will not resolve their defensive shortcomings.

The recent match against Hull City highlighted Chelsea's defensive vulnerabilities. Despite creating opportunities, Hull managed to threaten the Blues' goal with a reasonable xG of 1.32. Chelsea's defenders have struggled to perform basic tasks, leaving goalkeeper Emi Martinez exposed. Alonso must draw on his experiences under Jose Mourinho to instil a more robust defensive mindset in his squad if they are to compete for the title.

Liverpool faced a challenging test against Fulham, resulting in a disappointing goalless draw at Anfield. This match marked a significant moment for manager Andoni Iraola, who has been navigating the demands of a packed schedule since taking over. While Liverpool remains unbeaten under Iraola, their performance against Fulham raised questions about their ability to maintain tempo and intensity during a congested fixture list.

Iraola acknowledged that fatigue played a role in Liverpool's lacklustre display, as the team struggled to replicate the energy required for success. With only two points from home games against Nottingham Forest and Fulham, Iraola faces the challenge of finding solutions to improve performance levels. The pressure is on to ensure that Liverpool can adapt to the rigours of competing on multiple fronts this season.

Meanwhile, newly-promoted Ipswich Town has made a strong impression in their return to the Premier League, securing two wins in their first four matches. Their recent victory against Crystal Palace showcased their ability to remain composed under pressure. While Hull City has garnered much attention for their start, Ipswich is quietly establishing themselves as a competitive force in the league.

via Sky Sports