Who is NOT getting a Christmas card from Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca? asks Tim Harrison.
In one of the strangest post-match comments in recent memory at Stamford Bridge, Maresca claimed the previous 48 hours had been “the worst” but refused to say who was to blame.
Fans are utterly baffled.
Not only had the Blues just beaten a resurgent Everton side 2-0, but Cole Palmer was back in business, scoring a classic opener after 21 minutes before being subbed with more than half an hour to go to pace his recovery.
Malo Gusto, having one of his best games in a blue shirt, converted Pedro Neto’s cutback just before the break to seal the deal, and Maresca himself was smiling and jovial in his technical area, joshing amiably with fourth official Dean Whitestone, and sharing relaxed banter with Toffees’ manager David Moyes.
Defender Wesley Fofana also had a very solid game at the back after returning following a concussion lay-off, and the overall performance was excellent with captain Reece James authoritative in midfield.
So the press conference outburst came as a surprise.
Chelsea have stuttered recently.
Defeat to Atalanta in the Champions League may add games to a congested fixture list, and the loss to Leeds still stings.
But there were no pre-match indications of internal disharmony.
The only possible conclusion is that there has been some behind-the-scenes dust-up between the manager and the American club owners.
Was a stray remark misinterpreted?
Was something rash said in the heat of the moment?
Chelsea are in the top places of the Premier League, with a hectic schedule ahead between now and February.
The last thing the club needs is a boardroom ding-dong.
It’s time for a festive hug!
