It may not have been the perfect start to the season, but Chelsea’s 3-2 defeat in the Community Shield still left reasons to be positive, as the Blues head into a new era under Roberto Di Matteo.
It was clear from the off that there is still work to do in settling this new squad down. City were at it from the start, showing just how useful squad cohesion can be. Unlike Chelsea, City have not spent much this summer, and so are expected to start the season well; look out at Christmas, when Roberto Mancini struggles to replace his ailing stars.
This new Chelsea squad needs time to settle down, as they chop and change ahead of a new dawn under Di Matteo. Last May was simply a taste of things to come, and with a host of new signings under his belt, the boss is now making the squad his own.
Already Fernando Torres looks lively, scoring a neat opener just before half time. His link play with Juan Mata appeared as cohesive and flamboyant as ever, while it was nice to see Daniel Sturridge get a run out.
Granted, Eden Hazard did not have the game of his life, but pundits on Bet365 will look back and laugh at his rather unfortunate back-heel attempt at the end of this season when he is lifting a piece of silverware above his head.
Possibly the most important aspect of the day was Frank Lampard completing 90 minutes and showing he has lost none of his ability. Frank’s absence from Euro 2012 hurt England, but he is back in a Blues shirt and ready for the season to begin.
Expect as much blood and thunder throughout this campaign as was exhibited in Branislav Ivanovic’s challenge that left Aleksandar Kolarov clutching his shin: the season has well and truly begun.
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