Chelsea fans would have been disappointed following their side’s match against Arsenal on Sunday.
Enzo Maresca‘s men were beaten by their London rivals, ultimately failing to take advantage of Manchester City’s recent slip up.
Some Chelsea fans have taken out their frustration at Maresca, yet there are a few positives that they can take from the game.
The Chelsea Chronicle has taken a look at them following that 1-0 defeat at the Emirates.
Reece James played almost 90 minutes
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images
Over the last few years, Chelsea captain Reece James has had a lot of injury problems. He has missed many games this season because of two separate hamstring issues.
However, the defender has been back for a few months now and was able to play 82 minutes in a very physical derby against London rivals Arsenal. If you are a Chelsea fan, that is such a positive development.
Arsenal legend Ian Wright labelled James a “brilliant” player in 2023. Hopefully he can now stay fit and show that consistently.
Romeo Lavia returned
Photo by Mark Leech/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Photo by Mark Leech/Offside/Offside via Getty Images
Like James, Romeo Lavia is another Chelsea player who has struggled to stay fit. But the Belgian was in the Blues’ matchday squad for the game against Arsenal and was finally able to make his first appearance since January.
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There was one phase of play towards the end of the match where Lavia escaped some Arsenal pressure excellently. Having a midfielder who can turn and receive the ball like he does, even when being pressed, is only going to help Chelsea play better.
Chelsea still fourth
Photo by Shaun Brooks - CameraSport via Getty Images
Photo by Shaun Brooks – CameraSport via Getty Images
With City drawing 2-2 with Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday, Chelsea are still fourth in the Premier League table.
Newcastle United have a game in hand because of their involvement in the Carabao Cup final. But for the time being, Chelsea are where they want to be, while a fifth-place finish could earn Champions League qualification as well.
A 1-0 defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates is not the end of the world, especially when you consider all of the above.