Enzo Maresca Confirms One Guaranteed Starter for Tottenham Clash
Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Robert Sanchez will be the only guaranteed starter for Chelsea in their upcoming London derby against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, December 8, 2024. Following a dominant 5-1 win over Southampton on December 4, Chelsea are riding high on a four-match winning streak and sit second in the Premier League, tied on 28 points with rivals Arsenal.
The match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams have produced some memorable clashes in recent seasons. Chelsea will look to extend their winning streak to five and continue their strong form, having comfortably beaten Southampton in midweek. Maresca hinted at his lineup for the derby, with the Italian coach naming Robert Sanchez as the only player certain to start.
Maresca’s comments came after a question about goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen, who had a standout performance in the Southampton match. While Jorgensen’s impressive display had many wondering if he would start against Tottenham, Maresca made it clear that Sanchez would be in goal, stating, "That day we are going to play Sanchez and 10 players. The only one that is sure is Sanchez."
Sanchez has been a mainstay in Chelsea's Premier League matches this season, having played every minute so far and kept three clean sheets. Jorgensen, on the other hand, has featured primarily in the Conference League and League Cup, but not in the league.
Aside from the goalkeeper situation, Maresca has also addressed the performance of winger Noni Madueke. Despite scoring in Chelsea’s win over Southampton, his first goal since October, Maresca has challenged the 22-year-old to improve his training and overall contributions. The coach has been vocal about the need for Madueke to step up and meet the high standards expected of him.
In other news, Southampton defender Jack Stephens was sent off during the loss to Chelsea after pulling Marc Cucurella’s hair. It was Stephens' second red card of the season, resulting in a four-match suspension for violent conduct.
As Chelsea heads into this crucial derby against Spurs, all eyes will be on the team’s performance, with Maresca aiming for another victory to solidify their position near the top of the Premier League.
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