Armando Broja takes advantage of his chance as Chelsea comfortably defeat Preston after a slow start.

Armando Broja takes advantage of his chance as Chelsea comfortably defeat Preston after a slow start.

It is not advisable to consider Armando Broja’s single impressive goal against a weaker team in the Championship as evidence of his place in Chelsea’s major rebuilding process. When discussing the club’s financial fair play status, it is often mentioned that profits from selling academy players contribute greatly. Accounting is an important consideration and Chelsea is currently contemplating adding a new striker to bolster their offense this month.

However, fans are eager to witness the success of local players, despite the club’s significant spending of over £1 billion in the transfer market. Conor Gallagher, whose future is uncertain, received a warm welcome from supporters when he entered the game near its conclusion, resulting in a 4-0 victory over Preston North End. It is logical for Mauricio Pochettino to nurture these promising young players. Chelsea’s manager’s comment on Broja needing to smile more was intriguing, especially after the forward scored his second goal in a season that has been interrupted.

Broja’s upcoming weeks could prove to be pivotal. He has the potential to be a valuable asset to Chelsea when he is both healthy and self-assured. This is a crucial opportunity for the 22-year-old, known for his speed and strength, to solidify his place within the team. While Nicolas Jackson is away at the Africa Cup of Nations, Broja, who has struggled to find stability since recovering from a severe knee injury, must rise to the occasion.

Starting off strong by scoring a header that would have made Didier Drogba proud, Preston’s defense was shaken. Broja still has room to develop and may be hesitant as a target man, but he missed out on a potential hat-trick in this game.

Pochettino expressed joy over the moment, but Broja took the lead when Chelsea, who began with a slow pace before picking up speed in the fourth round of the FA Cup, were searching for an early breakthrough in the second half.

According to Pochettino, it was significant for him, but I must be truthful, he must utilize this game as an opportunity to enhance not only his physical fitness and work ethic, but also his body language. He should smile more and have a more positive attitude. This is the key to improving his performance.

We are discussing a promising young striker in either England or Europe who has a lot of potential. He must push himself and we will assist him in recognizing his aggressiveness. He experienced a significant injury and requires time to recover. However, our expectations for him are very high.

Pochettino is working hard to raise the level at Chelsea. When asked about Cole Palmer’s contribution to Thiago Silva’s goal, which brings Palmer’s total goal involvements to 15 since he joined from Manchester City last summer, he expressed his disappointment in Palmer for missing a simple opportunity in the lackluster first half.

Raheem Sterling’s bends his free-kick over the wall to extend Chelsea’s lead.

Chelsea will need to prioritize cup competitions this season since they do not have European football. Pochettino, who has not won any trophies in English football, could not afford to make too many changes to his lineup. Despite Nkunku’s injury, his team selection was still strong.

Preston, who are currently ranked 14th in the Championship, faced a tough challenge. However, their strong start and strategic formation of 3-5-1-1 proved difficult for their opponents to overcome. Ryan Lowe, Preston’s manager, praised the team’s performance, stating that he was disappointed with the first goal but overall impressed with their effort and dedication.

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In the first half, Chelsea was inefficient. Preston’s goalkeeper, Freddie Woodman, saved two shots from Raheem Sterling. Enzo Fernández, who needs to improve his scoring, missed an easy header. The Argentinian seemed relieved when he scored the final goal near the end of the game.

Chelsea had been dominating the story with a sterile approach. However, a sense of urgency in the second half proved to be the game changer. Mykhailo Mudryk exemplified this change in attitude by chasing down a loose ball on the left and passing it back to Malo Gusto. Gusto then crossed it to Broja, who scored a stunning header past Woodman.

Broja’s energy eased the pressure. Silva scored the second goal after coming in for Alfie Gilchrist, who played his first full game at right-back. Sterling extended the lead with a fantastic free kick that dipped into the goal. Fernández completed the scoring from a short distance. Chelsea will have a boost of confidence when they travel to face Middlesbrough in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final.

Source: theguardian.com