Marc Cucurella makes huge claim about Everton game – we’ll see if he’s right

Chelsea welcome Everton to Stamford Bridge today knowing they can ill afford another setback after going four matches without a victory.

What had looked like a genuine title push has quickly become a fight to secure a top-four finish, and with the table so congested, anything less than three points would be a major blow.

Marc Cucurella is well aware of what is at stake. The full-back has grown into a leadership role within the squad and made it clear ahead of kick-off just how crucial this fixture is.

Speaking on the club’s official website, Cucurella stressed the importance of returning to winning ways:
“Getting back to winning is very important.

For me, this is one of the biggest games of the season. We were playing very well before the last couple of weeks, but we’ve struggled to turn performances into wins recently,” he said.

“Being at home, we know we need the three points. We want to stay up near the top of the table, so this match is extremely important.”

With that in mind, Chelsea will be expected to deliver a high-energy, committed display from the opening whistle, which is now just moments away.

If the players cannot rise to the occasion in what has been labelled one of their most significant matches, serious questions will follow.

In other news…

Enzo Maresca has once again left Andrey Santos out of the matchday squad, suggesting the manager still has reservations about trusting the Brazilian midfielder.

That decision has puzzled many supporters, particularly with the team lacking a strong, physical presence in midfield.

Estevao Willian has also been omitted, a call that has frustrated sections of the fanbase. We have explored the possible reasons behind that decision in a separate piece.