The arrival of loan striker (and, seemingly, lone striker) Gonzalo Higuain, and the departure of Alvaro Morata, fills Chelsea fans with hope.
The 31-year-old Argentine started encouragingly enough after being flung into action against Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup win on Sunday, even if he was unsure of all his team-mates’ names.
The plan is to use him up front against Huddersfield, Saturday’s visitors, currently fighting for their Premier League lives.
Yet major mid-season arrivals have a feel of desperation. Why could management not see what was obvious to all fans; Morata could fill neither Costa’s nor Drogba’s boots?
Once Higuain starts building an understanding with Eden Hazard and Willian (whose weekend brace provided a confidence boost) the Blues should start seeing dividends. Willian’s second goal against Sheffield Wednesday, involving a neat one-two with Olivier Giroud, was particularly enjoyable.
With Manchester United coming to Stamford Bridge in the 5th round of the FA Cup, a repeat of last year’s Wembley final, there’s no doubt about the ‘tie of the round’.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer won the trophy twice with United, so needs no explaining how important the competition is to supporters.
But Morrie Sarri seems to have a passion for the cup as well. Having yet to lift a trophy, he will be hoping Higuain will make the difference for Chelsea in what should prove to be an epic encounter.
The views expressed in this blog are those of the author and unless specifically stated are not necessarily those of Hammersmith & Fulham Council.
Want to read more news stories like this? Subscribe to our weekly e-news bulletin.
