Chelsea 2012/13 Season Preview

By Chris Linnell

We take a look at Chelsea’s prospects leading up to the new Premier league Season.

Manager: Roberto Di Matteo

Stadium: Stamford Bridge – 41, 837

Nickname:  The Blues

2011/12 League Position: 6th

Summer Signings

Eden Hazard – Lille – £32m

Oscar – Internacional – £25m

Marko Marin – Werder Bremen – £7m

Thorgan Hazard – Lens – Undisclosed

Key Players

John Terry – Terry has been the rock at the heart of the Chelsea defence for years and that won’t change this season.

Frank Lampard – The club legend remains integral to Di Matteo’s 4-2-3-1 pla. Sitting alongside Obi Mikel in a deep-lying role, his assured passing was vital to both cup successes. He won’t be ever present, but more of the same will be need in the bigger games.

Juan Mata – Mata’s footballing brain is very impressive. He had a great opening season in the Premier League, expect him to impress even further this time round.

Likely Line-Up

Cech, Ivanovic, Terry, Cahill, Cole, Mikel, Lampard, Ramires, Hazard, Mata, Torres

Team Tactics

• Lampard will likely play a deeper role this season. He can start attacks with his passing and vision.
• Ramires, Mata and Eden Hazard will form a deadly trio behind the lone striker.
• Torres will need to be on top form this time round. He’ll need to be strong, quick and full of movement as he plays upfront on his own.

Opening Fixtures

August 19^th Wigan (A), 22^nd Reading (H), 25^th Newcastle (H), September 15^th QPR (A), 22^nd Stoke (H), 29^th Arsenal (A)

Verdict

Despite last season’s Champions League and Fa Cup wins, this Chelsea side is very much in a transition period. Di Matteo has spent over £60 million this summer and that will help close the gap on the Manchester clubs. 3rd