Key Takeaways:
- Chelsea claims victory in the Carabao Cup third round after a dry spell of three winless matches.
- Ben Chilwell suffers a potential hamstring injury, raising concerns due to his previous related issues.
- The Blues will take on Blackburn Rovers in the fourth round of the cup at the end of October.
- Ahead lies a series of league games, with Chelsea aiming to boost their league standings.
Carabao Cup Victory Amidst a Challenging Phase
Under manager Mauricio Pochettino, Chelsea managed to break free from their recent winless streak with a win against Brighton in the Carabao Cup. This victory came as a relief after previous disappointments against Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa, and Bournemouth. An early second-half goal by Nicolas Jackson sealed the deal for the Blues.
Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali appeared to head to the dressing room after their Carabao Cup win over Brighton 🔵 pic.twitter.com/PiCEnNNBaA
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) September 28, 2023
Concern Over Chilwell’s Fitness
However, the victory was not without its challenges. Ben Chilwell had to leave the pitch shortly before the match concluded, raising alarms about a potential injury.
“Yes, we need to assess tomorrow, but I think it is [his] hamstring,”
Pochettino shared with the media. Given Chilwell’s past hamstring troubles, which kept him out of the 2022 World Cup, there’s a palpable concern within the club.
🚨 Ben Chilwell has picked up a hamstring injury. (@liam_twomey via Pochettino)
— Pys (@CFCPys) September 27, 2023
Pochettino’s Perspective on the Match
Facing mounting pressure due to the recent series of non-victories, Pochettino viewed this match as crucial.
“Of course, the uncertainty and sometimes the pressure to win means not to be perfect in our positions [on the pitch],” he stated. “But I think in the second half we dominated the game and fully deserved the victory.”
Looking Ahead: Chelsea vs. Blackburn Rovers
On the horizon for Chelsea is a face-off against Blackburn Rovers, who recently bested Cardiff City. Reflecting on his team’s performance, Blackburn’s manager Jon Dahl Tomasson expressed satisfaction, noting their “exceptional, attacking and fluent football.”
WHAT A GOAL THAT IS!
It surely wins Chelsea’s goal of the month for September! pic.twitter.com/IOiIo1jT8B
— Project Football (@ProjectFootball) September 28, 2023
Chelsea’s upcoming battle with Blackburn, scheduled for the final week of October, marks their first encounter since the 2011-12 Premier League season.
Upcoming Matches for Chelsea
Before taking on Blackburn, Chelsea has a series of league challenges ahead. The next match is a West London derby against Fulham on Monday night. This will be followed by fixtures against Burnley, Arsenal, and Brentford as they aim to climb up the Premier League standings.