Zimpapers Logo

LONDON. – As Chelsea’s problems deepen, Jose Mourinho will attempt to revive his side’s disastrous English Premiership soccer campaign by masterminding a victory against Southampton at Stamford Bridge today. Another testing week has only added to the growing sense of unease around the club, with Mourinho forced to defend his relationship with his players after making unexpected changes for the Champions League trip to Porto.

The Blues boss reacted to last weekend’s Premier League draw at Newcastle – Chelsea recovered after falling two goals down to Steve McClaren’s struggling team – by leaving Oscar, Loic Remy and Radamel Falcao at home in midweek and starting Eden Hazard, John Terry and Nemanja Matic on the bench.

The overhaul did not have the desired effect, with Chelsea slumping to a 2-1 defeat that reinforced the view that Mourinho’s side this season are a shadow of the team that eased their way to the Premier League title in May. The visit of Southampton will provide another stern test, with Saints manager Ronald Koeman voicing his confidence this week that his side can get something from the game after twice holding Chelsea last season.

Mourinho’s men need a lift and injured keeper Thibaut Courtois expressed the frustration currently gripping the club. The Belgium goalkeeper, currently sidelined with a knee problem, said: “It is not easy, no, to see all that, and not be part of the team at the moment, and being unable to help.

“Tuesday, in the Champions League, they lost, playing a good game. But we will progress. And Saturday, we have to win at home. “There is pressure, and I hope we will win. After that, there is the international break, and then I hope Chelsea win a series of matches. Chelsea’s success last season was built on their defensive strength but Courtois’ absence, together with Branislav Ivanovic’s dramatic loss of form and John Terry’s frequent demotion to the bench, means the back-four is not what it was. – AFP.