With confirmation of John Terry’s exploratory operation this evening, along with the injury to Jose Bosingwa’s in the 3-1 defeat in Naples, we’ve seen some movement on our Watchlist. With Terry potentially facing up to six weeks or more on the sidelines, Gary Cahill looks to have the opportunity to cement his a starting role in the centre of the Chelsea back four ahead of a favourable trio of fixtures.
A possible absence for Jose Bosingwa would also strengthen Cahill’s claims. Lining up at left-back in tonight’s 3-1 defeat to Napoli, the much criticised Bosingwa was forced off on 11 minutes with what was thought to be a hamstring injury. A spell on the sidelines would surely see Branislav Ivanovic continue in the right-back role for the foreseeable future, paving the way for Cahill to partner David Luiz in the centre of Andre Villas-Boas’ defence. It’s also interesting to note that Cahill was included on the teamsheet, at the expense of Luiz, left behind at Chelsea’s hotel prior to tonight’s game. Andre Villas-Boas has confirmed post-match that the scribbles were genuine.
Given the absence of Terry and the recent form of the Chelsea back four, the prospect of defensive returns from a Blues defender would seem bleak. However, Chelsea have conceded five goals in their last five league games, keeping two clean sheets – three of those five goals conceded were also against United. More significantly they welcome both Bolton and Stoke to Stamford Bridge in the next three, with a trip to West Brom providing the filling in a sandwich of fixtures that looks appealing.
Both Bolton and Stoke rank amongst the most impotent attacks right now. The Trotters have scored just a single goal in their last three league games, while Stoke have notched just two goals in their last five. West Brom meanwhile, despite fetching five at Molineux last time out, have scored just three goals in their last five matches in front of their home fans.
With clean sheets at a premium outside of United and City, the statistics clearly indicate that Chelsea, despite the obvious frailties on show, have decent defensive prospects over the next three and with Cahill available for 5.2, he is the cheapest member of the rearguard. The former Bolton man will also bring a proven goal threat at set-plays, to help fill the void left by his skipper Terry – scorer of four goals this term.
