Recent reports of Carlo Ancelotti’s authority being undermined by the recent elevation of Michael Emenalo as assistant coach sparked of rumours that the Italian would be leaving the club before his contract ran out in 2012.
Today Chelsea’s manager came out with a statement stating he is perfectly happy to be in the club.
“These rumours are totally untrue. I have my contract until 2012, here, in this club.”
There are all these theories about how Ray Wilkins dismissal has downgraded morale and made communication with players more difficult for Ancelotti. Frankly, all this does not add up. Wilkins’s role was being questioned by a number of Chelsea players which is why Ancelotti never rushed to his defense. The long time assistant manager might have left a void but to attribute Chelsea’s swoon to his absence is to give him hyperbolic credit.
More to the point – Chelsea are missing some very influential figures like Michael Essien, John Terry, and Alex. Against Birmingham they showed serious attacking intent but were unable to put away numerous scoring opportunities. A very good Ben Foster display also helped in keeping a clean sheet.