Former Chelsea midfielder Craig Burley says manager Thomas Tuchel is facing a major test of his ability.
With key men missing for Tuchel, Burley suggests the Blues boss needs to prove he is the real deal.
“For a long time, Tuchel was hailed as a manager could do no wrong," he told the Sunday World.
“He was rotating that Chelsea team and whatever he did, they won for most of the last year.
“Now that isn't happening anymore and cracks are appearing in their make-up for the first time, with the manager being looked at to sort it out.
“Edouard Mendy couldn't put a foot wrong in goal, the defence looked solid whoever Tuchel picked and they scored enough goals to win without having an outstanding striker.
“It looked like the addition of Romelu Lukaku last summer was going to be the final piece of the jigsaw, but Tuchel has not found a way to get the best out of him so far and that's a problem.
“Chelsea are a good side and they have some top players, but I don't see them getting over the line in the most demanding title race in the whole of European football if Lukaku is not leading their line.
“He's the striker who can take Chelsea to the next level and there is no doubt they need to get to that level if they are going to finish ahead of Liverpool and City this season."
Need a VPN? Or seeking to switch? Then support Tribal Football by clicking here to sign up with our official partners NordVPN. Not only will you receive the best VPN experience, but also great discounts by signing up via Tribal Football. Thanks for your support!