Maresca: Sancho Must Step Up Until Season's End
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Synopsis
Chelsea's Enzo Maresca emphasizes the need for Jadon Sancho to enhance his performance as the club aims for Champions League qualification, while also providing updates on player injuries ahead of a crucial London derby against Tottenham.
Key Takeaways
- Enzo Maresca urges Jadon Sancho to improve his performance.
- Sancho has played 28 games for Chelsea, scoring 2 goals and 7 assists.
- Transfer clause allows Chelsea to back out for £5 million.
- Maresca expresses confidence in his squad for upcoming matches.
- Injured players Palmer, Madueke, and Jackson are returning.
London, April 2 (NationPress) Chelsea's head coach Enzo Maresca has acknowledged that Jadon Sancho, currently on loan, must elevate his performance as the club strives for UEFA Champions League qualification.
Since his arrival on loan from Manchester United, Sancho has played for The Blues in 28 matches, scoring twice and providing seven assists.
"You likely have more updates than I do regarding Jadon. For me, his circumstances remain unchanged. He can undoubtedly improve his stats, but it’s not just about Jadon; we have other players facing similar challenges.
"I don't need to send Jadon a message; I converse with him daily. I spoke with him yesterday. He must keep giving his utmost until the end. That’s what we expect from Jadon,” Maresca stated during the pre-match press conference.
Sancho's transfer to Chelsea includes an obligation to purchase ranging between £20 million to £25 million, contingent upon the London club finishing at least 14th in the Premier League this season. However, a recent report from The Athletic highlighted a clause that allows the club to withdraw from the agreement by paying £5 million.
"I appreciate all the players with us. However, the focus now is on concluding the season strong, not pondering next season. We’ll see what unfolds in the summer. I’m pleased with all the players here,” Maresca added.
Maresca also provided an optimistic update regarding Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, and Nicolas Jackson ahead of the upcoming London derby against Tottenham on Friday (IST).
The Blues will host Ange Postecoglou’s team at Stamford Bridge, aiming to advance closer to securing Champions League football.
Although facing a challenging opponent in Spurs, Maresca is excited about the return of players from injury and confirmed that Palmer, Madueke, and Jackson are available for selection.
"Cole is back; he’s doing well. Noni is improving, and Nico is also getting better. It’s fantastic to have them back. We’ve stated repeatedly that this game is for the players, and when they’re unavailable for various reasons, it’s tough.
"That’s precisely what transpired this season; we had six incredible months followed by six or seven consecutive injuries. We lost some momentum. However, it’ll be beneficial to conclude the season with all of them,” he concluded.
