Soccer Premier League

Chelsea Seeking Improbable Undefeated Premier League Season

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By @NickBurgess92

Jose Mourhino

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In 2004, Arsenal did something that was absolutely unbelievable: They won the Premier League without losing a single game. Dubbed “The Invincibles,” they finished the season with 26 wins and 12 draws to snatch the title from holders Manchester United. Since this feat, no other team has been able to recreate it, but Chelsea are now chasing this honor as their own.

Chelsea have had a brilliant start to the season, winning all but two games that they drew to both Manchester United and Manchester City. They are six points clear of second place Southampton and look to be running away with the title to the point where Arsene Wenger claims they “have already won the title,” even though it’s only November.

So, can Chelsea go undefeated this season? It is certainly possible, but it is still unlikely. They have several players who are crucial for their season, and if they lose them to injury or they drop in form, Chelsea could be facing some issues, especially up front. Didier Drogba is not at the age where he can play 90 minutes week in and week out, so if Diego Costa and Loic Remy go out hurt they could be in real trouble.

The other player they cannot afford to lose is Nemanja Matic. One of the most intelligent and physical players in the Premier League, he is crucial to Chelsea’s season, and if he gets hurt or misses a run of games, expect Chelsea to fall off their own pace.

Jose Mourhino also has a poor track record against lower table teams in the league, with losses against Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and Sunderland stopping their title campaign last season.

Depth may also be an issue for the Blues. With so many games to play this season, they need a constant rotation to keep everyone fit, and that may result in some tired players. In the center of defense, they need to rely on their academy product Kurt Zouma to cover for any injuries or rotation. They are very thin in this area, as well as the midfield where they have Ramires and Jon Obi Mikel to cover for Cesc Fabregas and Matic. They may need to increase their depth in the January transfer window if they want to keep their streak alive.

If Chelsea are going to claim their title as the new “Invincibles,” they need to stay healthy, keep the foot on the gas and get a little bit of luck.

Nick Burgess is a soccer columnist for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @NickBurgess92, “Like” him on Facebook and connect with him on Google.

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