Chelsea’s goal-shy forwards have been a constant topic of debate over the past few seasons and Jose Mourinho believes that our newest addition Samuel Eto’o has become a lesser player following a spell in Russia.
Mourinho admitted that Eto’o is nowhere near the level he was during his days at Barcelona and Inter Milan, which is expected as he’s now 32, but stressed that he’s still good enough to make a difference.
The Portuguese manager was quoted in Le10Sport:
“When you spend more than ten years at the top of European football, then you go for completely different and unknown challenge with Anzhi, we all know that it is for economic reasons.
“He is no longer the player he was at Barcelona or Inter. I knew he would not be at this level, but for me he is still a great player – when Samuel Eto’o has the ball at his feet, you remember quickly.”
The Cameroon legend has started the last three matches but has so far failed to make an impact but perhaps Mourinho, noticing his lack of sharpness, has stuck with him up until now to boost his match fitness but if the goalless run continues he’ll be forced to make changes and isn’t exactly blessed with options as Fernando Torres and Demba Ba are the only alternatives.
Ironically, the only Chelsea forward that looks to have a goal-scoring touch is Romelu Lukaku, currently on loan at Everton and scored on his debut for Roberto Martinez’s side at the weekend. Lukaku doesn’t remember his goal as he took a whack when he went to head it, it’s just a shame that neither of our forwards seem to have that anticipation or bravery.
Anyway, the Lukaku debate is for another day, presently Mourinho has three forwards to work with. A consistent forward can help make life so much easier for the rest of the team, but which of the forwards is the man for the job? Should Mourinho stick with Eto’o and hope he comes good or is it time to change to Torres or Ba, who have failed to consistently produce for a prolonged period?
Although Eto’o hasn’t played well and has failed to hit the net so far, he has done some things that have been pleasing. For example, he actually makes a gamble and it has been a long long time since I’ve seen a Chelsea forward make a near post run, if only his touch has been there he’d have three or four already. But he’s had a chance so should sit one or two out before his next opportunity.
