Travel issues not a worry to Chelsea boss Maresca

BY EDMUND BRACK
edmund@slpmedia.co.uk

Enzo Maresca is not concerned about Chelsea’s form on the road despite their lengthy wait for a Premier League away victory.

The Blues last picked up three points away from Stamford Bridge on December 8 when they beat Tottenham Hotspur 4-3.

Chelsea have played seven away top-flight games since and it is their longest winless run on the road since October 2022-February 2023 under Graham Potter.

Mikel Merino scored the only goal as Arsenal beat the Blues 1-0 on Sunday at the Emirates Stadium.

“We want to try to win more away games,” said Maresca. “We’re doing it at home, but we want to try to do the same away.

“We were winning games away and struggling at home – now it’s on the other side.

“We need to improve away. I don’t see a big difference between us and them (Arsenal).

“I have a feeling that we’re on the right path since I arrived and that we’re very close. We have to take that step forward to compete in these types of games, but this step comes from finishing in the top four or five to grow in the Champions League.”

The Blues were without Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke and Nicolas Jackson against the Gunners.

England winger Madueke and Senegalese striker Jackson have been out long-term, with Palmer picking up an injury in training prior to the trip to north London.

“It’s a huge difference,” said Maresca. “The three players with the most goals for us are Cole Palmer, Nico Jackson and Noni Madueke.

“Not one of them was on the pitch today and two of them have them been out for a long time.

“It’s normal that we struggle offensively, even if we’re the second or third best in the league until today.

“We’re doing well without those players but we could do better with those players who are out at the moment through injury.

“It’s not just about one player. When I say that we can’t rely on Cole, you can’t rely on one player. Don’t put too much pressure on Cole.”

Robert Sanchez was back as Chelsea’s number one, having been dropped for  Filip Jorgensen following the 3-1 defeat at Manchester City in January.

The ex-Brighton stopper had some nervy moments during the 90 minutes and was jeered by the home supporters every time he had the ball.

“He did a good game and made some good saves,” said the Blues head coach. “With his feet, he gave us some good moments and in some moments, he struggled a little bit.

“Overall, the performance was good.”