I’ve posted about the lack of a big name signing. I’ve posted about Ancelotti’s modest league record and criticised his 4-4-2 diamond. I’ve worried about the impact of John Terry’s increasing influence at Chelsea.
But, despite all that, I’ve also talked through the chances of all our rivals and concluded that Chelsea are in pole position in the league. Now, just under two hours away from Chelsea opening the 09/10 Premier League campaign against Hull, the final preview: ten reasons why Chelsea will win the league. Can it be done?
1) Standing still is the new going forwards
Man Utd lost Ronaldo. Liverpool lost Alonso. Arsenal lost Adebayor and Toure. None of those three have signed like-for-like replacements, so will either be weaker or have to adapt. In contrast, Chelsea hung on to John Terry, have made a good addition in Zhirkhov and have the most settled squad of the newly formed ‘big five’. 
2) Essien and Cole are like new signings
Provided they stay fit, of course. Between them Essien and Cole played only 24 league games last season - double that and that’s a huge resource that was missing last term.
3) The Mancs won’t do it
Manchester United have too many goals to replace in the wake of Ronaldo’s departure and it’s one season too early for Manchester City’s shiny new squad.
4) We’re in the winning habit
It’s been a winning pre-season, with only a poor performance at Reading blotting the record book. In July Chelsea despatched the best two teams in Italy over in America before lifting the first silverware of the season last weekend by beating United on penalties in the Community Shield. Old habits – they die hard.
5) Youth won’t win the day
Arsenal haven’t strengthened in the few areas they needed it – age, experience and defensive strength. United too are over-reliant on the youngsters – Macheda and Gibson look good, but won’t win them the league.
6) The greatest strength in depth
After the injury crises suffered over the last three seasons, that Chelsea have pushed so hard for trophies is testament to the squad’s strength in depth. Liverpool’s squad is paper thin and Arsenal and City are short of at least three or four defensive signings. Chelsea on the other hand have at least two quality players for each position – with the possible exception of a striker or attacking right winger. Having few injuries could win us the title, but we’re in a good position either way.
7) Rock solid at the back
Although Man Utd fans might argue the same thing, Chelsea have at least the best defence in the league - and the first job of any title winning side is to be hard to beat.
8) Playing two forwards
Two strikers on the pitch? At the same time? That’s just greedy. It’s been an unfamiliar time over the last few seasons, but Ancelotti really is going to give Drogba someone to play with upfront. Regardless of the lack of depth in the squad, Drogba and Anelka is as good a top two as any in the league, and the former has look invigorated of late.
9) Frank Lampard
The surest guarantee of goals short of bribing match officials. 
10) We’ve done it all before
There’s always a certain amount fan bravado at this time of year but those of us getting nervous it’s worth remembering that ten players in our squad have won the league before. Five have won the Champions League, and most have reached either the semi-final or the final of a major international tournament. In contrast, Liverpool’s current squad have won little domestically and Arsenal and City players are yet to experience the kind of pressure that comes with nearing success. When the pressure tells, we know Chelsea won’t crack.
Whether you’re going to the Bridge this afternoon (see you there) or watching on Sky Sports – enjoy the match. I fancy us to grab a rusty, early-season 2-0 win – look out for the match report later today. In the meantime, how do you think the league will be won? Post a comment.
come on chels! four nil today and we'll finsih the season first ahead of Utd in 2nd and city in 3rd
Posted by: chelsfan | 15 August 2009 at 11:16