November’s international break came at an opportune moment for Chelsea, offering Enzo Maresca a fortnight to regroup his troops after a form downturn.
Going into Saturday’s Premier League encounter against newcomers Leicester City, the Blues have only won once in their last five league outings (D3, L1).
However, Maresca’s men deserve the credit for pulling off back-to-back 1-1 draws against fierce rivals Arsenal and Manchester United just before the break.
Fans who watch football on TV would have seen Chelsea’s resilience on display in those hard-fought matches, with the Pensioners fighting back from a goal behind to avoid defeat on both occasions.
Despite their barren run, the Stamford Bridge outfit entered the international pause in third, albeit level on points with three more sides, including Arsenal.
After winning his first three away league matches in charge of Chelsea, Maresca has overseen consecutive top-flight travels without winning.
Before drawing at Old Trafford, the Blues slipped to a 2-1 defeat at Liverpool.
There’s one significant difference here.
Chelsea approached both those fixtures as underdogs but head into the East Midlands clash as strong favourites to claim points.
But they’ll be without captain Reece James, who suffered another injury setback during the break.
According to Express Sport, the English defender issued an emotional statement on social media, expressing his disappointment and determination to overcome his latest challenge.
Maresca returns to his old stomping ground.
Before receiving a call from Chelsea, the Italian manager inspired Leicester to Premier League promotion last term.
It’s fair to say the King Power Stadium was Maresca’s launchpad.
However, he must put his feelings aside as the Blues desperately need three points to consolidate their pursuit of a coveted top-four finish.
The King Power has been a feeble fortress this season.
Steve Cooper’s charges have only won once in five home league outings (D2, L2), with that solitary triumph coming against bottom-half Bournemouth.
