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Former Liverpool forward Peter Crouch reckons Chelsea have found a new top-class goalkeeper in the shape of Djordje Petrovic.
The Blues signed Petrovic from New England Revolution last summer for a reported fee of £12.5 million. The 24-year-old joined as a backup for Robert Sanchez after Kepa Arrizalabaga (loan) and Edouard Mendy both departed the club in the same transfer window.
Sanchez kept five clean sheets in 19 appearances for Chelsea. However, he looked far from convincing at times, particularly with his decision-making. The Spaniard suffered an injury last month against Everton, giving Petrovic a chance to impress.
The Serbia international has flourished so far, keeping three clean sheets in nine appearances. He was included in the starting XI, helping the Blues defeat Fulham 1-0 at Stamford Bridge earlier today (January 13).
Crouch believes Petrovic has done enough to keep his place in Chelsea's starting XI, telling TNT Sport (via METRO):
"He looks really assured, he was catching the ball, taking the pressure of his defenders he was vocal he made a couple of good saves. He looks like the answer because they’ve really struggled for goalkeepers in recent years."
Joe Cole added:
"It’s a good sign he’s not getting the plaudits. What that means with goalkeepers you want them making the saves they’re supposed to make, a calming influence. You don’t want these ones that do the old camera saves and then are making mistakes. He just looks a good steady hand."
"A good young goalkeeper who has come in from the MLS, people might not have known a lot about him but he’s had a big reputation and played a lot of football for a young man. I think he’s one of them where in six month’s time he’ll have had 20 or 30 games under his belt and you think he’s not put a foot wrong."
Petrovic had a good game against Fulham, making four saves, seven recoveries, and two high claims.
Jason Cundy names 22-year-old star as Chelsea's best player after 1-0 Fulham win
Former Chelsea defender Jason Cundy believes Enzo Fernandez was the Blues' best player following their crucial 1-0 win against Fulham on Saturday.
Cole Palmer scored a penalty in the fourth minute of stoppage time in the first half. Mauricio Pochettino and Co. were able to narrowly hold onto their lead to win their third Premier League game in a row. They are now eighth in the standings with 31 points from 21 games.
Fernandez had an excellent game in midfield. He created three big chances, had eight touches in Fulham's box, and completed both his crosses. He also made six recoveries and won nine duels.
Cundy said (via The Chelsea Chronicle):
“My man of the match, Enzo. I think he’s been excellent"
Fernandez hasn't quite been at his best so far this season with Chelsea struggling for form as a unit. He has scored four goals and registered one assist in 24 appearances across all competitions.
