Marcos Alonso: “This is Chelsea’s biggest obstacle this season”
Chelsea defender Marcos Alonso told press ahead of Wednesday’s game against Qarabag what he believes is the biggest obstacle standing in the way of the Blues and success this season.
According to the Spaniard, English football’s busy winter calendar and the fixture pile up is the biggest problem that Chelsea face in their defence of the Premier League title.
Antonio Conte’s men marched to first place in the league last season, but were not involved in Europe and had to play comparatively less matches than they will have to do in the current campaign.
The Italian boss has bemoaned the Premier League fixture list and Alonso has echoed his manager’s thoughts, but insisted that he is feeling good ahead of Chelsea’s 2,470 mile round-trip to Azerbaijan to face Qarabag.
“It is going to be a tough period now, not just this week. Everyone knows how the Christmas period is in England.” he said.
“We will have a game every three days between now and the start of February. Sometimes we will not be 100 per cent but each player has to help the team. We have to be well prepared and very focused.”
“Is the fixture schedule Chelsea’s biggest obstacle this season? Yes, there are so many matches. We are getting kicks in games, we get tired, so recovery is very important.” he continued.
“If there is any point I don’t feel I can help the team, I will tell the manager I’m tired. But I’m feeling good. I take the opportunity to rest when I can and work with the medical team to be 100 per cent for each game.”
Wonder which team Conte will put out on Wednesday? See Chelsea’s predicted XI vs Qarabag here. Also read Chelsea vs Qarabag predictions, betting tips and live stream.
Marcos Alonso: “This is Chelsea’s biggest obstacle this season”
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