Ahead of the clash against Chelsea, I spoke to ReadChelsea editor Ryan Darby about how this season has panned out for both clubs and how he expects the game to go.
How do you feel about Conte taking over in the summer?
Antonio Conte’s arrival is hopefully a sign of change at Chelsea this summer. The club needs to enter a new era, moving on from the likes of Lampard, Drogba, Terry and co but needs to do it in the right way. Conte is known for his ability to ‘rebuild’ teams and has done so well at this in his career in management. He is a passionate man that won’t take any egos at Chelsea, which sounds good to me!
Who has been Chelsea’s best player in what has been a largely disappointing season?
This is between two players, Willian and Cesc Fabregas. Willian had a great first half of the season, scoring goals left right and center in all competitions. He’s slowed right down in the second half of the season and Fabregas has shone under Guus Hiddink. He has shown his form of last season, unlocking defences at ease. He showed that against Bournemouth, where he grabbed three assists from four of the goals.
Who should Spurs watch out for on Monday?
It really depends on who plays. I imagine Hiddink will play a fairly strong line-up, but he has been slightly experimental over recent weeks, with one eye on Conte taking over next season. Ruben Loftus-Cheek has been brilliant since the Aston Villa game a few weeks back. He started against City and was great for the first half. Eden Hazard also scored twice against Bournemouth last week, so he could have a late flourish this season.
What have you made of Tottenham’s season?
They’ve almost gone under the radar due to Leicester’s fairytale story, but Pochettino has them playing good football with a young team. It’s good to see so many young English players doing so well.I think they’re still missing that something extra to get their hands on a Premier League title, but if they can keep all their players over the summer and maybe bring one or two more in, they’ll be right up their next season.
Which Spurs player would you like to see at Chelsea?
There is a few, that’s something I don’t think I’ve ever said. Harry Kane would provide us with a different threat up front, whilst I was gutted we missed out on Toby Alderweireld, who we were linked with during the summer.The obvious choice is also Dele Alli. He is such a talent in midfield and I’d love to see him at Stamford Bridge. He’s the type of player our midfield needs.
How do you think the game will go?
This is a very important game, regardless of whether or not the title race has been decided or not by this point. The rivalry will be intense and Chelsea players have talked up this game, so they need to put in a performance to show that it wasn’t to just win over the fans.
And finally, what will the score be?
1-1
Thank you to Ryan for taking the time out to answer the questions!
