Carabao Cup semi-finals: Klopp a class apart as Sterling hits form for Chelsea
Mauricio Pochettino was in a playful mood ahead of Chelsea’s FA Cup victory over Preston. Asked whether the third-round tie marked the beginning of an important six months for Euro 2024 hopeful Raheem Sterling, the Chelsea boss responded: “You already know he’s going to play?”
Pochettino kept onlookers guessing up until the teams were revealed an hour before kick-off. Despite sitting 24 places above Preston in the league pyramid, he felt the need to keep Sterling in the starting XI.
With so many young players in Chelsea’s squad, Pochettino no doubt values the experience provided by the 29-year-old. Sterling’s inclusion paid off against Preston, where he provided an assist and the pick of the four goals, an excellent free-kick from the edge of the box.
The stakes are higher at Middlesbrough on Tuesday - live on Sky Sports - where Chelsea will be hoping to take a confident step towards the Carabao Cup final.
With Chelsea in mid-table in the Premier League and without European football, the domestic cups have taken on an even greater importance than usual.
Fortunately for Chelsea, they can call on a player who has already lifted this trophy five times. If Pochettino feels his youthful squad require guidance through this semi-final, he need look no further than Sterling.
Joe Shread
It hasn't been a good period for the 'Golden Generation' managers.
Wayne Rooney has been sacked by Birmingham, Steven Gerrard is struggling in Saudi Arabia, and Frank Lampard remains without work following his departure from Everton and underwhelming interim stint at Chelsea.
Step up Michael Carrick. Last season he led Middlesbrough from the relegation zone into the play-offs. This campaign, having seen his squad options depleted after key departures and
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