Glenn Hoddle has leaped to the defense of Robert Sanchez, clashing with Ian Wright’s claim that the goalkeeper will ‘cost’ Chelsea their ambitions if they don’t find a replacement this summer.
Robert Sanchez has been a hot topic throughout this season at Chelsea, going through patches of good performances with the odd mistake or two creeping in.
Gary Neville has been quite vocal with his view on Robert Sanchez, claiming that every time he watches him play, his heart is in his mouth.
Despite all the criticism, Sanchez is firmly in the race for the Golden Glove this season in the Premier League, having kept nine clean sheets.
Glen Hoddle thinks Sanchez has been better than people are crediting him for, but Ian Wright doesn’t agree.
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Ian Wright’s assessment of Robert Sanchez
During Premier League productions’ coverage on Sunday, Ian Wright didn’t hold back in his assessment of Robert Sanchez after his error at the Emirates.
“I don’t know how they’re going to do that with that goalkeeper if I’m totally honest.
“Because I think that there are so many opportunities where he probably will cost them and he could have cost them today, but I’m looking at a Chelsea side that only needs maybe a couple of experienced players.
“I think they definitely need a goalkeeper, I think the midfield is fine, up front maybe another top striker if they can get that, but I think three additions to that team and I think they’re starting to challenge, no trouble, no problems at all.”
Even Liam Rosenior had his head in his hands after the Sanchez incident.
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Glen Hoddle responds to Ian Wright
Speaking on the same show, former Tottenham star Glen Hoddle actually jumped to the defence of the goalkeeper, stating that he’s impressed him at times this season.
“The goalkeeper, I would disagree a little bit. Over the season. He’s impressed me during the start of the season. He’s done some good things with his feet.
“I’m think I’m looking from last season. I’m thinking, “Wow, he’s improved. He’s got better. He looks more assured. He’s simplified.”
Despite solid shot-stopping, he often misjudges the flight of crosses and struggles with ball retention, losing possession at a high rate. Reducing these mental lapses is key to his long-term security.
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