Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino is facing what is a must-win game for him and his Blues side as they prepare to host Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge tonight.
The Argentine is under heavy pressure to reverse what has been a more-down-than-up month of December following losses to the likes of Manchester United, Everton and most recently Wolves on Christmas Eve. Despite their big penalty shootout win over Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup, their performances have left a lot to be desired — both going forward and defensively — and supporters are starting to get frustrated.
Pochettino himself has admitted that he's surprised at how difficult the job has been so far, saying earlier this week: «We knew it was going to be tough this year but never [this tough]. Because of all the circumstances you are describing [injuries and suspensions], it makes the situation worse.
»Too many important players out. Too many circumstances going on from the start of the season that is out of our hands. But at the same time, it’s a good challenge. We are all disappointed because it’s Chelsea."
The loss to Gary O'Neil's side no doubt dampened festive spirits around West London and the Blues will not want to record their 21st defeat of the calendar year tonight to worsen the already-volatile feelings around the club. Since the post-Abramovich era began, supporters seem unable to pull themselves out of the mindset and model that saw them churn through so many managers in such a short space of time and continue to see success.
With Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali now at the top of the metaphorical food chain, it bodes the question of how long Pochettino will be given to fix the mess he inherited from previous boss Graham Potter who lasted a mere
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