Chelsea's Promising Potential: The Key to Success Hinges on Reece James and Ben Chilwell's Fitness

Gary Neville believes that Chelsea's performance in their 1-1 draw against Liverpool demonstrates their immense potential. He further insists that Mauricio Pochettino is the ideal manager to cultivate this talent. Nonetheless, Neville cautions that any injuries to the newly-appointed captain Reece James or vice-captain Ben Chilwell would completely derail the manager's strategies.

James and Chilwell played as wing-backs at Stamford Bridge during Chelsea's match against Liverpool. Their presence on the field contributed to Chelsea's comeback and helped secure a point in Pochettino's debut game as manager. However, both players were substituted in the second half. Pochettino clarified that James was replaced due to fatigue and not because of an injury, reassuring the fans about their captain's condition.

After commentating on events in west London for We, Neville said on the Gary Neville Podcast that he was impressed by what he saw.

'James, Chilwell injuries would destroy Poch plans'

"There is ample room for growth and numerous opportunities to excel, and my belief is that they have appointed the ideal coach to convert that potential into exceptional displays of skill.

"What became evident [on Sunday] is that Chelsea boasts exceptional wing-backs, however, both were substituted during the inaugural game of the season.

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Reece James has been appointed as the captain of Chelsea for the upcoming season. This decision will significantly disrupt Pochettino's strategies as wing-backs need to possess exceptional skills and expertise, excelling in both attacking like wingers and defending like full-backs – a quality that James possesses in abundance.

'Lots to look forward to at Chelsea'

"The fitness of those two remains a looming uncertainty, casting doubt on the team's overall stability. The wing-backs hold immense significance, and any absence renders the entire structure susceptible to potential collapse."

They made significant progress in the game, which was not evident by the end of the previous season. Their performance was occasionally disgraceful, as they gave up easily.

However, on Sunday, they displayed great persistence and determination, especially exemplified by the impressive performance of midfielders Enzo Fernandez and Conor Gallagher. This gives much reason for optimism and anticipation.

'Liverpool not ideal first opponents'

"The notable aspect about Chelsea is the intense style displayed by (Mykhailo) Mudryk, (Ian) Maatsen, and (Nicolas) Jackson. They have a tendency to run offside, exhibit remarkable speed in their gameplay, lack composure in the box, and occasionally let their emotions get the better of them. However, Mauricio Pochettino will surely address these aspects during the training sessions."

"I arrived here during Jose Mourinho's inaugural season with Manchester United, and playing an away match at Stamford Bridge is never desirable. Both teams likely settle for a draw and find satisfaction in it.

Both teams exhibit a certain level of restlessness and lack organization, but it is still early in the season and neither team's transfer window activity has concluded yet.

"Mauricio Pochettino is a new manager and Jurgen Klopp is trying to settle this new team down."

Pochettino: This is only the beginning

Pochettino informed We that he expects his team to meet the same level of performance as Chelsea's game against Liverpool this season. After the game, the Blues boss expressed that they dominated and created opportunities in the second half, with only one shot on target resulting in a goal.

We have to be satisfied when playing against a team like Liverpool. However, this is just the start. It represents the bare minimum expectation.

After working together for six weeks, I am extremely happy to witness this level of performance. It provides us with a starting point to continue our efforts and hard work.

Poch: Jackson 'fantastic' | Nkunku a loss

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Nicolas Jackson impressed on debut for Chelsea

Pochettino praised Nicolas Jackson for his impressive performance on his Chelsea debut, especially leading the line. However, he expressed concern about the absence of Christopher Nkunku due to injury, which created a gap in their reformed attack.

He performed exceptionally in the fight. I am highly satisfied with his performance, however, we need to find players who are on par with him. The focus should be on continuous improvement.

We are lacking a player similar to Nkunku, who was outstanding. Their partnership was extremely successful during pre-season.

"The plan was to play with him. But we need to adapt. These things happen and we need to be positive."