There is just one game left at this World Cup, then we can get back to the Premier League, and we can get back to the real stuff – arguments about net spent, VAR in football, and debating whether a manager deserves more time.
Chelsea fans have been happy for the break – their season was turning into a terrible drag when we broke off. The sacking of Thomas Tuchel had made everyone uncomfortable; the good run that Graham Potter started with meant we could relax a little, but when his results soured, the bad vibes were back – and in greater numbers.
Everyone has been praying that this time away has given the new coach a chance to get his message across and that we will see a new and improved Chelsea on the 27th when we return to action against Bournemouth. But we have our doubts. So many of Potter’s starters have been away in Qatar, getting yet more minutes in their legs and missing out on any of the benefits of training with their new coach and his staff.
One thing that will be true – and can play a huge part – is the return of injured players. Some will be back for that Bournemouth game, and others shortly after. Fans will watch nervously in those first few matches to see if the returning Reece James and co. can give the team the massive boost they need to get back into the top 4 race.
It seems like a big ask, even for players of that level. The fact that we’ve also lost one of our two options up top in the interim is a real blow, too – we could take two steps forward and one step back. Armando Broja wasn’t in top form, but he was at least an option up top, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang on his own isn’t scaring anyone.
Ultimately, Graham Potter knows that results are vital from the moment his team gets back on the pitch, and those first two games against the Cherries and Fulham have to bring 6 points, as after that, we face Man City, and going gets tough.
There are still ten days to go – but Potter must use them all carefully. Once the break is over, we’re playing two games a week pretty much all season, and there will be barely a moment to rest or to get onto the training pitch with his players.