Mauricio Pochettino, manager of Chelsea, has downplayed worries over his team’s discipline, even though Chelsea received the most yellow cards in the league in the 2023–24 Premier League season with 56. Raheem Sterling and Cole Palmer, two vital players, have been suspended for the next match against Crystal Palace, prompting the Argentine boss to make his remarks.
During Chelsea’s most recent encounter against Wolves, five players, including Pochettino, received cautions, drawing attention to the problem of discipline. Palmer, Malo Gusto, and Nicolas Jackson were given yellow cards for dissent, while Sterling was booked for diving.
In an interview with the media, Pochettino stressed that the large amount of yellow cards does not indicate lack of discipline but rather the level of dedication and pressure that comes with playing for a prestigious club like Chelsea. Palmer, who is playing in the Premier League for the first time, is especially vulnerable due to the added pressure and lack of experience. “Our main focus is to constantly improve and adjust to different game situations,” Pochettino added.
The disciplinary problems that Chelsea has faced this season are far from the only ones. A slew of ailments has also plagued the squad, reducing their playing time and effectiveness. But Pochettino is confident that, if everyone is healthy, the team will be well-balanced.
This past weekend’s loss to Wolves brought Chelsea’s league defeat total for 2023 to 19, tying them for most in English Premier League history.
Chelsea is about to enter a pivotal part of their season. On December 30, they will play an away match against Luton Town, following their match against Crystal Palace on December 29. After losing four in a row on the road, Chelsea faces a formidable opponent in Luton Town, a team famed for its strong home performances. If Pochettino wants to keep his team from suffering more campaign setbacks, they need to be on high alert.
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