Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has hinted at a push for defensive reinforcements in January tRANSFER window after his side drew 1-1 with Crystal Palace on Saturday.
The Blues have failed to win their last four games, drawing with Everton and most recently Palace either side. defeat to Fulham and Ipswich Town. Maresca had spearheaded a run of eight straight wins before a dismal run over the festive period, which has coincided with a string of defensive injuries.
While club captain Reece James has only recently returned to the Chelsea squad – but is yet to make his first appearance since November – it was confirmed that quarterback Wesley Fofana would be out with a hamstring injury for most, if not all, of the season.
Fellow defender Benoit Badiashile is also out until next month, leaving Maresca with no defensive options – as he pointed out after Saturday's messy jam. “Maybe with the injuries of Wes and Benoit, we will see if something will happen”, admitted the Italian coach.
The free-spending west London side ended Aaron Anselmino's loan spell at Boca Juniors earlier this week, bringing the Argentine centre-back to Stamford Bridge six months ahead of schedule. However, at only 19 years old, Maresca has called for caution when it comes to rushing the teenager into first-team duties.
With versatile defender Renato Veiga potentially on his way to Serie AThe Blues could make room in the budget for a new – and much needed – defensive recruit.
Maresca was also keen to point out the positives from ChelseaThe lackluster 1-1 draw – most of which came in the form of Josh Acheampong. The 18-year-old right-back made the first start of his Premier League career at Selhurst Park and was hailed as the “best player” on the pitch by his manager.
“Josh Acheampong was fantastic for us,” Maresca said. “We really believe in Josh and it's just a matter of the right path for him, but he will be an important player for the club.”