Micah Richards makes bold Chelsea prediction as Erling Haaland transfer decision proven wrong
Micah Richards believes Chelsea could secure a Champions League qualification spot this season if they can sign a 'proper top striker' this month. The Blues have been heavily linked with several big names throughout the January transfer window as Mauricio Pochettino hopes to further bolster his frontline.
Yet no new faces have been brought to Stamford Bridge, and Chelsea remain 12 points adrift of Aston Villa, who are currently fourth in the Premier League. Despite having recorded the fifth-highest expected goals (xG) this season, the West Londoners sit ninth in the English top flight.
Speaking on 'The Rest is Football' podcast with Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer, Micah Richards explained why Chelsea must sign a striker who matches the club's ambitions. The former Manchester City defender referenced the impact Erling Haaland has had at the Etihad Stadium.
«I’m quite confused with Chelsea because I remember saying early doors that I had seen all the patterns of play, I had seen what they were trying to do and it looked like they had a clear plan but they just couldn’t get it across in the field.
»All the approach play has been excellent, it’s just that final bit. Now are we starting to see that final bit? Broja is still young but if they had a proper striker, all those games they were in, a proper striker scores that and I think we are talking about something different.
«It’s as easy as when Alan [Shearer] said if Man City get Haaland they will win everything. If Chelsea get that proper top striker, we are looking at a top four, top five, top six contender for me.»
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