“He didn’t know what to do” – Paul Merson slams Chelsea star ahead of Aston Villa clash

Chelsea’s late fightback at St. James’ Park earned them a point against Newcastle United, but it was a performance that left plenty of questions unanswered. After falling 2-0 behind early on, thanks to a Nick Woltermade double, the Blues showed character to claw back a draw. Still, the cracks in their play, particularly on the left flank, were glaring.

Enzo Maresca, the Chelsea manager, was a frustrated figure for much of the first half. His visible tension culminated in a booking, and with this being his third caution of the season, Maresca now faces a suspension for the upcoming clash against Aston Villa. The Italian will have to manage the game from afar, a scenario that could make selection decisions even more crucial.

One of the key questions ahead of the Villa match is whether Estevao Willian will return from his minor injury issue. If fit, he is likely to replace Alejandro Garnacho on the left side. While Garnacho, the former Manchester United winger, has enjoyed a promising start to his Stamford Bridge career, his finishing against Newcastle was underwhelming. Opportunities came his way, particularly against an out-of-position Lewis Miley, but the Argentine struggled to assert himself and influence the game as expected.

Paul Merson, covering the Aston Villa vs Manchester United match on Sky Sports, didn’t hold back in his assessment. “I watched Garnacho against Miley, Miley’s not a full-back. Just showed Garnacho down the line every time, he didn’t know what to do,” Merson said. The criticism points to a larger issue for Chelsea on the left wing, where uncertainty in attacking execution and decision-making could hamper the team against stronger opponents.

Despite Garnacho’s offensive limitations in this fixture, it is important to note that Maresca has praised the winger’s defensive contributions in recent weeks. His work in tracking back and helping Chelsea defend from the front has added balance to the side’s play, but clearly, more is needed going forward.

Pedro Neto, who has struggled against Aston Villa historically, could also be rested to allow Chelsea to inject fresh energy and unpredictability on the left. The Portuguese winger has found it difficult to impose himself against Villa, and a break might allow him to regain confidence and sharpness.

Another player struggling to stake a claim for the left-wing spot is Jamie Gittens. The former Borussia Dortmund man has yet to prove his worth in the Premier League, and compared to his price tag and expectations, his impact has been minimal. Chelsea will need to consider whether to continue persisting with Gittens or explore alternative options in the squad to strengthen the left-hand side.

While Chelsea’s 2-2 draw at Newcastle demonstrated resilience and fighting spirit, it also highlighted the need for tactical adjustments and sharper attacking play. With Maresca absent from the dugout against Villa, the responsibility to get the team firing will fall on his assistants and the squad itself.

The left-wing position will be key in this regard. Chelsea need players who can both defend effectively and contribute in the final third, providing creativity and goal threats. The performance at St. James’ Park showed that, when pressured, the current options sometimes struggle to make decisive choices.

Fans will be hoping that Maresca’s selection for Villa includes a balance of experience and youthful energy, and perhaps a more attacking-minded presence on the left to unlock defenses. Chelsea cannot afford to leave games in the hands of defensive frailty or individual indecision, especially against teams like Aston Villa who are more than capable of punishing lapses in concentration.

As Chelsea prepare for the Villa encounter, the left side of their attack is under the microscope. Garnacho, Willian, Neto, and Gittens all have opportunities to impress, but only consistent performance and decisive action will convince Maresca that the Blues can achieve the results their fans demand.