Chelsea have a rare free midweek coming up, which could help them steady the ship and focus on strengthening their top-four credentials

Chelsea have slipped to fourth in the Premier League after dropping two points against Crystal Palace and Enzo Maresca is determined to help his side rediscover their previous form

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca blamed a lack of clinical finishing after Jean-Philippe Mateta’s late equaliser salvaged a 1-1 draw for Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park. Cole Palmer opened the scoring in the 14th minute of a first half dominated by Maresca’s visiting Blues,

But it is Chelsea’s lack of control during matches that is providing a test for him now. The 2-0 defeat at Ipswich Town means Chelsea have lost successive games for the first time under Maresca. They have failed to score in successive away games too and ended 2024 picking up just one point from their final three league matches.

Chelsea defender Wesley Fofana hasn't played for the Blues since the start of December, but his hamstring problems might not be as serious as manager Enzo Maresca fears

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has hit back at criticism over his substitutions in recent matches following their draw to Crystal Palace.