The Chelsea fans in the Transfer Tavern are desperate for their side to bounce back against Watford this evening. It hasn’t been a very good few weeks for the Blues, and a disappointing 3-0 loss to Bournemouth was the last thing that Antonio Conte needed.
The significance of this evening’s clash with Watford, then, cannot be understated. Anything but a win will leave Chelsea in a very difficult position, not least with regards to the future of their manager.
That being said, they should really have enough to take down the Hornets. Watford had their own troubles this season, and whilst their decision to bring in a new manager recently is likely to have a positive effect long-term, the Blues should be well placed to secure a victory.
Whether Chelsea perform as well as fans are hoping, though, could well depend on Antonio Conte’s team selection. More specifically, with Alvaro Morata unavailable, it may well depend on who the Italian chooses to replace him.
The obvious answer would be Olivier Giroud, but Conte stated last week that he didn’t think that the Frenchman was ready. Nonetheless, it’s a decision that – according to our landlord – he simply has to make.
Here are TWO reasons why…
It’s What Chelsea Need
Sure, Chelsea need a striker – but that isn’t the only reason why they need Giroud.
Antonio Conte likely watched on in horror last Wednesday as his attacking line failed to create anything of note. Their lack of a target man and out-ball really hurt them, and that simply cannot be allowed to happen again.
Morata isn’t a target-man, per se, but he is able to hold onto the ball and serve as a long-ball option when Chelsea need to get the ball forward.
With Morata unavailable, though, Giroud simply must play. The Blues need a player to lead the line, as on more than one occasion this term they have faltered without one.
He might not be 100% ready, but Conte has little choice.
It’s What Giroud Needs
Whenever a striker moves clubs, it’s obvious that they would want to make a goalscoring start.
The last thing Giroud will want is to have to sit on the bench and wait for his chance. He’ll want to be straight out there and he’ll want to make an immediate impact.
It’s the perfect chance to give him an opportunity, especially with Morata out injured, and he’ll no doubt want to grasp it with both hands. Starting him will benefit both the player and the club.
