Chelsea are going through somewhat of a crisis in the striker position ahead of their return to Champions League action against Atalanta on Tuesday night.
The Blues currently find themselves in the top eight, however will need to deliver results in their final group stage games to move straight into the Round of 16.
Their trip to Atalanta got more difficult with the news that Cole Palmer had not made the trip to Italy, where Chelsea have just one win since the 2003/04 season.
Chelsea’s Champions League record in Italy (away group/league stage away games)
The Blues have won two games, drawn two and lost three 🇮🇹
AC Milan 0-2 Chelsea (2022/23)
Juventus 1-0 Chelsea (2021/22)
Roma 3-0 Chelsea (2017/18)
Juventus 3-0 Chelsea (2012/13)
Lazio 0-4 Chelsea (2003/04)
Lazio 0-0 Chelsea (1999/00)
AC Milan 1-1 Chelsea (1999/00)
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The absence of the England international should see Joao Pedro return to the number 10 position, where it has been said he will perform at his best since his move from Brighton.
An injured Liam Delap of Chelsea holds his shoulder as he speak with Reece James
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images
Tyrique George should start for Chelsea vs Atalanta in Champions League
Chelsea fans are yet to see the Club World Cup form of the Brazil international in the Premier League or the Champions League, however it has become clear striker is not his best position.
With Liam Delap now injured again too, Enzo Maresca should take this opportunity to start Tyrique George up front against Atalanta, rather than Marc Guiu.
The Cobham graduate has four combined goals and assists in 447 minutes of action this season, making him easily one of Chelsea’s most economical forwards.
A large portion of those minutes have come in the number nine role, which despite not being his natural position has often been good for the Blues.
He started there in both EFL Cup games this season, finding the net against both Lincoln City and Wolves.
Chelsea need to utilise George before what looks an inevitable departure from Stamford Bridge, and there won’t be a shortage of sides already interested in snapping him up.
Tyrique George celebrates his goal with Chelsea teammate Jamie Gittens
Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
George surely set for January departure
With the strength in depth Chelsea have in the wide attacking areas, opportunities look scarce for George at Stamford Bridge in the coming years.
Who is Chelsea’s best winger?
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George has dropped out of the matchday squad frequently since Palmer returned from injury, and was nearly moved on to Fulham on deadline day of the previous summer transfer window.
There are a ‘long list’ of clubs keen on George, who has already proven he has the capabilities to be a regular in the Premier League.
However, he is a Chelsea player right now, and Maresca should be looking to make the most of him and the club’s impressive record when he does feature.
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