Premier League analysis: Key takeaways for Chelsea after defeating Tottenham again
In a London derby that had huge implications at the bottom of the table, Chelsea managed to defeat Spurs 2-1 in the final game of the season at Stamford Bridge.
Sports News Blitz writer Dejan Johal reviews the key takeaways from the match from a Chelsea perspective.
Chelsea defeat Tottenham and complete the double over them
After a difficult season, it proved to be normal service resumed as the Blues once again got the better of Spurs in a fairly scrappy 2-1 victory.
It was a cagey affair, with both teams making mistakes and struggling to get hold of the game. However, Chelsea managed to secure the win in the race for European football.
This is now the third season in a row that Chelsea have completed the league double over Tottenham.
As well as this, Stamford Bridge has continued to be a difficult ground for Spurs, with Tottenham winning just one game there in the last thirty-five years.
It has been a challenging campaign for Chelsea, and other results confirmed they will not be playing Champions League football next season. However, it was still important for the Blues to end their home campaign with a victory.
Enzo Fernandez running the show
In what could have been his final game at Stamford Bridge, Enzo Fernandez certainly did not disappoint.
A brilliant strike from outside the box, along with an assist for Andrey Santos, ensured Chelsea claimed all three points and kept their hopes of European qualification alive heading into the final game of the season.
Fernández dominated the attacking areas of the pitch, linking play effectively while also contributing with goals and creativity.
The Argentine has now scored 10 league goals this season, more than any other central midfielder, while also reaching twenty-one goal contributions in all competitions.
Despite the speculation surrounding his future, Fernandez has enjoyed a strong season and delivered in several important moments for Chelsea.
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Liam Delap disappoints as questions grow over his future
It proved to be another difficult evening for Chelsea’s number nine Liam Delap, who once again struggled to make a significant impact.
There has been increasing discussion surrounding Delap’s future after a disappointing campaign in which he has scored just two goals in 40 appearances.
However, another underwhelming display against Tottenham may already have influenced Xabi Alonso’s thinking regarding his future at the club.
Many supporters remain unsure about Delap’s profile as a striker and whether he fits the style Chelsea are aiming to build towards, despite the club spending £30 million to sign him.
At this stage, it appears increasingly likely that he could leave the club during the summer transfer window.
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Chelsea must improve next season
Despite securing the victory and showing flashes of quality throughout the season, Chelsea still have major improvements to make heading into next year.
It has been a difficult campaign filled with inconsistent and disappointing performances.
Even in victory against Tottenham, Chelsea’s overall display lacked control and conviction against a side battling relegation.
The Blues will need to improve significantly next season, both in terms of results and the style of football they produce.
Supporters will want to see a team with a clearer identity and performances they can fully get behind.
That improvement may come under a new manager, but whoever takes charge will need proper backing in the transfer market, as well as a serious clear-out of players who may not be at the level required for Chelsea to return to competing at the top level.
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