Oct 25
Joe Cole returns to inspire Blues
A slick, powerful Chelsea sent out a warning to their title rivals with a dominant display against a hugely mediocre Blackburn Rovers at Stamford Bridge – and for one of England’s forgotten men, it was the perfect showcase for Fabio Capello.
Joe Cole was at the heart of everything good about Chelsea, adding flair and movement to a fairly rigid diamond formation, constantly picking up the ball in dangerous pockets and committing defenders in the final third. Cole is a player like no other in Capello’s England shortlist and, if he can stay fit, must be a shoe-in for South Africa. He’s akin to an English South American; a dainty playmaker that can turn a game with one through ball, one mazy dribble, one devastating turn of pace.
Chelsea could have scored eight; in the end though, five was enough as Frank Lampard (2), Michael Essien, Didier Drogband and a Gael Givet own goal sent the Blues back to Premier League summit.
