Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca could not have asked for much more on Wednesday night.
His Chelsea team were able to beat Southampton 5-1 at St Mary’s and move up to second in the Premier League.
Chelsea are now seven points behind leaders Liverpool and look to be in the title race.
Noni Madueke was one of the goalscorers on Wednesday, and Madueke has discussed the impact Maresca has had on him this season.
Noni Madueke of Chelsea during the Premier League match between Southampton FC and Chelsea FC at St Mary's Stadium on December 4, 2024 in Southampt...
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Noni Madueke’s honest assessment
Madueke has also commented on his performance against Southampton, which was a very good one.
The winger managed to finish the game with a goal and assist but was not completely satisfied with his display, admitting that he wasted some chances.
Speaking to Prime Video after the match, Madueke said: “Some moments were a bit sloppy in front of goal from us, myself included, but five goals and yeah, we’re very happy to get another three points.”
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Chelsea fans also discussed Madueke’s performance, feeling that Maresca dropping the 22-year-old in the last game has benefitted him.
How many chances did Noni Madueke miss?
While it was a bright display, in truth, Madueke really could have had a hat-trick at St Mary’s.
In total, the Englishman missed four big chances. Overall, he had seven shots, with five being on target.
Noni Madueke vs Southampton Total
Goals 1
Shots 7
Shots on target 5
Shots off target 0
Shots blocked 2
Big chances missed 4
Madueke is still young, though, so his finishing can still improve. And he has already matched his goal tally from last season, showing that the former PSV Eindhoven man is getting better in that area.
In the 2023/24 Premier League campaign, Madueke scored five goals in 23 appearances. This term, he already has five in 13.
All in all, Maresca can be happy with Madueke’s contribution in attack, though the Chelsea manager has admitted that he has not been pleased with how the England international has been training.
The Chelsea board can also be delighted with Madueke after paying just £29m for his signature last year. It has taken some time, but Madueke now looks like a real bargain.
He can prove himself further as well when Chelsea take on their fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.
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