Chelsea managed a late win against Norwich. The Blues finished two goals ahead after substitutes Hazard and Willian managed to score during a 2 minute interval. According to Sky Sports Mourinho’s moves were risky except for that of Cole who succumbed to an older injury that has been bothering him for a while now.
The Blues have had an inconsistent season up until now and “The Special One” tried his best to maintain Chelsea’s winning streak. Even if his team was in control during the match against Norwich, the game could have easily ended in a draw. In order to avoid losing contact with Liverpool and Arsenal who are on top of the Premier League standings, Mourinho sent in Eto’o, Hazard and Willian. After the final whistle the Portuguese manager admitted that his plan was a totally different at the beginning of the match. His team should have scored one or two goals after which they would have defended the results. Unfortunately Oscar’s early score opener was not enough to win. Norwich managed a comeback and Chelsea had to start attacking again.
Mourinho explained each and every move he made against Norwich. He also said that sending in Hazard was not a fortuity even if Cole suffered from a rib injury. Chelsea’s defender could have carried on. The Blues’ manager considered this particular move a beneficial one for both his team and England’s national team who have an important match on Friday. He expressed his support and told the press that he wants all of his players to be able to help England qualify for the World Cup.
Sending on Hazard was a great choice. Cole will have enough time to recover and the Blues stay close to Arsenal and Liverpool who are two points ahead. Willian also managed an amazing goal which got Chelsea their 4th win in their last 5 matches.
Hopefully Mourinho will manage to keep up the good work and continue making the right moves. It is obvious that he has not yet found the perfect starting formation but he looks like he is getting there.