Wanted - One Central Defender

Scratch my back and do it fast!

John Terry is Chelsea. And Chelsea's backbone depends on Terry's back. Normally, Chelsea's defence is impenetrable. It doesnt seem the same anymore. Chelsea have conceded 8 goals in their past 5 games against Everton, Wigan, Fulham, Reading and Villa. The Villa game being a 0-0 draw.

Chelsea scraped wins against Everton and Wigan. Everton conceded goals of a different class whereas against Wigan, Chelsea scored a late winner, Arjen Robben scoring a goal in injury time. Jose Mourinho stated after the Wigan game, "Father Christmas was very kind to us, we did not deserve to win"

Lets consider Chelsea's defensive options - John Terry (ruled out till 11th), Ricardo Carvalho (the only fit Centre Half), Khalid Boulahrouz (injured), Ashley Cole (fit), Paulo Ferreira (fit), Geremi (fit).

Out of this lets see who all can play the Central Postion. John Terry - out. Ricardo Carvalho - fit and according to Mourinho one of two players who are currently giving 100% while playing (the other being Didier Drogba, in case you're brain cells are dead) and your last option - Khalid Boulahrouz.

The Cannibal - Feeding off Scraps

I first saw "The Cannibal" play for Holland in the World Cup and I must admit he didnt impress me at all. He lacks focus, he commits unnecessary fouls and he's never on the right side of the forward. In a way, it may be good for him that he's injured, he can't embarass himself anymore in the position of Centre Half. Stick to Right Back and try to improve, Boula.

Interesting Point to note : Ricardo Carvalho is suspended for the next game (unsure source)

The transfer window is open and among other people, Sol Campbell and Matthew Upson are linked with Chelsea. Prices have sky rocketed, mainly because Chelsea has the dough and in the past were willing to pay fabulous prices for players who werent worth that much (yes, I'm talking about the Ukrainian). Mourinho said that he would rather play his 55 year old assistant instead of paying high prices. He may well have to.

Chelsea seems to be overcome with injury problems. Joe Cole is injured. Andriy Shevchenko went public and said that he would like to play for Milan on loan if Chelsea did not require him. Chelsea can use him actually. Make him play alongside Drogba and defenders will be too busy laughing at the 30 million man. Thats a 30 million joke!

Chelsea's board seems to have made it clear that Mourinho has to improve results or face the consequences.