High-stakes Clash: Chelsea vs Brighton in Carabao Cup Raises the Stakes as Mauricio Pochettino Grows Anxious, Claims Paul Merson

Mauricio Pochettino appears to be showing signs of panic, according to Paul Merson, and Chelsea's upcoming Carabao Cup match against Brighton at home is of utmost importance. With only two victories this season and a three-match scoreless streak, the Blues' recent defeat to Aston Villa on their home turf has compounded the pressure.

'Chelsea's next 10 games are vital - but where is the win coming from?'

Chelsea's upcoming game against the Seagulls is causing concern for Merson. He believes that this particular cup tie holds greater significance for Chelsea compared to any other team remaining in the tournament.

Tottenham missed an opportunity by fielding a weakened team in round two, leading to their elimination. However, considering their current performance and the need to qualify for the Champions League, I can now comprehend why they opted to rest players.

On the other hand, Chelsea is struggling to secure a victory. Despite having relatively easier fixtures, many clubs would have eagerly embraced the same opportunities. Interestingly, Newcastle, who faced Aston Villa, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Brighton, have accumulated four more points than Chelsea.

The last thing Chelsea need to do now is go out to Brighton (in what is one of six Carabao Cup ties forming part of Wednesday's Super 6 offering on Sky Bet!) in the cup.

Looking at Chelsea's upcoming fixtures, there is cause for concern. The next 10 games are absolutely crucial for their season, leaving you breathless with anticipation. It's a stretch where their prospects of winning a football match are uncertain.

Therefore, Wednesday's football match holds immense significance. If they suffer defeat, it would mean that they have only emerged victorious in three out of their previous 24 matches. One of these wins came against Luton, and it's impossible to predict when they will secure another victory. Another triumph was achieved against AFC Wimbledon in the cup, although it was a close call. The third win came against Bournemouth last season, but only after Bournemouth had already secured enough points to avoid relegation.

Mauricio Pochettino's recent remarks indicate a sense of panic. His admission that "it's a process" and urging for patience suggests that he recognizes the unfavorable situation. This is concerning, as even he seems to believe that things were not meant to unfold this way. The fact that he is expressing these concerns already is a cause for worry. Although their team is facing injuries, I genuinely hope Pochettino can maintain his composure and is given the necessary time to turn things around. However, my apprehensions persist.

Arsenal may need Toney in January

I've always said it from day one - Eddie Nketiah is not going to win you the Premier League.

A proper center forward is needed to improve the team. Nketiah cannot be solely blamed for the 2-2 draw against Tottenham, but considering the 32 remaining games and the Champions League matches ahead, I do not believe he can elevate the team to the next level. Gabriel Jesus also falls short in taking them to that next level.

I was extremely confident in Arsenal's victory on Sunday, but when I saw the team lineup, I became greatly concerned. Playing Jesus on the wing, Nketiah up front, and Fabio Vieira - I question his suitability. Then, when Declan Rice was substituted and Jorginho took his place, my worries heightened.

Arsenal unveiled a relatively less formidable lineup, which appeared somewhat weaker on Sunday considering their extensive participation in the Champions League and the numerous matches they have ahead. However, merely contemplating the necessity for a proficient center forward does not conjure up a readily available candidate, does it?

Ivan Toney stands as their sole option in January, as quality center forwards are becoming increasingly rare in the world. They are a diminishing group.

During a recent conversation with Michael Owen, I heard him mention how things have changed. In the past, players like him, Alan Shearer, Teddy Sheringham, and Robbie Fowler would consistently score 20 to 30 goals per season, yet their England caps were not as abundant. Ian Wright and Les Ferdinand experienced a similar situation. Nowadays, reaching the 20-goal mark in the Premier League translates to earning a spot on the England national team.

Toney's proficiency in holding the ball up and his skills in the air make him an excellent player. Arsenal may need to consider pursuing him. However, quality center forwards are limited in number, making it challenging to find alternatives.

In the event that Arsenal suffers a defeat against Manchester City on October 8, their chances of clinching the title will be dashed. They would find themselves trailing by seven points.

Many argue that with numerous games remaining, Arsenal still has a chance. Nevertheless, even if there were 600 games left, Arsenal would not be able to surpass Man City due to their seven-point advantage. This is a significant hurdle for Arsenal, as they would only face City once, and it would be an away match. The upcoming game at the Emirates holds immense importance and could potentially determine their fate.

Arsenal

Manchester City

Sunday 8th October 4:00pm

Kick off 4:30pm

Arsenal Manchester City

During the initial 35 minutes of the match with Arsenal, I found Tottenham's performance quite underwhelming. In fact, it reminded me of watching Spurs under managers Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho. Had Gabriel Jesus successfully scored for a 2-0 lead, the narrative would have been entirely different. However, he squandered an absolute sitter.

I was impressed by Tottenham's determination to stick to their preferred style of play even after that. I initially expected Arsenal to win easily, but Spurs showed resilience by recovering from being behind 1-0 and 2-1. Normally, they would have given up, but credit must be given where it's due. I thought they were exceptional, and I now anticipate them being among the top four teams.

Tottenham Hotspur

Liverpool

Saturday 30th September 5:00pm

Kick off 5:30pm

Destiny Udogie performed exceptionally. To be booked early in the game and then face off against Bukayo Saka - one of the world's top wingers - is quite impressive.

However, Ange Postecoglou deserves credit. He expressed his confidence in Udogie, reminding him of his role as a full-back to handle one-on-one situations and stay on the field. Typically, against a player like Saka, a manager would substitute Udogie to avoid a red card. But the manager made a fair decision, and Udogie executed his duties exceptionally well.

Liverpool, on the other hand, still have a considerable amount of work ahead of them. Manchester City's dominance in the league is currently overwhelming, exerting immense pressure on all teams. Their performance is truly exceptional.

Liverpool, nonetheless, are holding their ground admirably. Their success hinges on maintaining a focus on each individual game, without allowing Manchester City to gain an early advantage.

The biggest advantage Liverpool have is they can draw to Tottenham and Brighton over the next two weeks because they still have to play Man City twice - and they can beat Man City twice.