Premier League Half-Term Reports: Chelsea charge not letting up
Published:Team Name: Chelsea
Current Premier League position: 1st
Giddy highs: The rate in which the Blues frontline has been firing in the goals this season has been something to behold. The link-up between Diego Costa and Cesc Fabregas makes it look like they have been at the same club for years.
Having netted 15 goals in their first four Premier League games it is clear the Stamford Bridge outfit have adopted a more attacking outlook this season and will cause trouble to most defences.
Crushing lows: In a cruel sense of irony, it was Chelsea’s all-time leading goalscorer that gave Blues fans probably their bigger headache this season.
Jose Mourinho’s side were leading by the odd goal against Manchester City when Frank Lampard took to the pitch for his new loan club. It took less than 10 minutes for the Chelsea legend to come back to haunt his old side, netting a late equaliser to halt their 100 per cent start to the campaign.
Shining Star: Diego Costa
There was only really one candidate for this title. Since his move from Atlético Madrid, the striker has hit the ground running in the Premier League, bagging himself nine goals, and will surely take top goalscorer honours if his well documented hamstring issues don’t cause too much trouble.
Biggest Disappointment: Andre Schurrle
Probably a tad harsh, but considering their impressive start to this season it is hard to single anyone out for criticism. However, an impressive World Cup saw the German tipped for a big season in west London, yet inconsistent performances have seen him drop to the bench as the season has gone on. He will need to be more clinical when chances fall to him if he is to force his way back into a regular starting XI berth.
Best bet for the rest of the season: To win the Premier League and the Capital One Cup @ 9/2
Grade: A
Final Thoughts: Just seven games in and Chelsea are five points clear of Manchester City in second, and look well placed to claim a fourth Premier League title.
Their constant upgrade could hinge on whether Diego Costa stays fit, although they do have a decent fallback in Loic Remy to step into his shoes.
Having conceded six goals in their first four games, things look to have finally clicked at the back with two straight clean sheets.
With Jose Mourinho guiding the club to the League Cup in two of his four full seasons in charge at the Bridge a league and cup double could well be on the cards.
All odds and markets correct as of the date of publishing
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