Chelsea should have kept Romelu Lukaku: Martin Keown

Chelsea striker Romelu Lukaku is currently on loan at Everton

Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has written in his Daily Mail column that Chelsea aren’t as solid as they once were under Jose Mourinho and that they need ‘a Drogba’.

Romelu Lukaku was sent out on loan to Everton earlier this season which brought some criticism on Mourinho as many thought he should be starting for the Blues this season.

“They are exciting going forward but do not look as solid at the back. I like John Terry and Gary Cahill as a pairing but they’re not functioning as well as they should be and in part that’s down to the players in front of them,” wrote Keown.

“I think they also miss Didier Drogba’s work at set-pieces. Even though he’s a striker, he was fantastic at clearing danger. Maybe hanging on to Romelu Lukaku could have helped.”

Chelsea have conceded six goals from set-pieces this season which is already the same number as the whole of last season.

“But they need to cut out the sloppiness. As a defender, you take it personally when the ball goes in your net, particularly from a set-piece. If you’re outmuscled or outjumped, it’s an affront to you and your role in the team.

“It’s hard working on set-pieces in training but every manager gives his team a defensive platform and it’s vital that everyone knows their roles and responsibilities.”