Chelsea Star Criticized for Fortunate FA Cup Display
Chelsea’s goalkeeper, Robert Sanchez, received criticism from former player Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink for his performance in the FA Cup quarter-final against Leicester City. Despite Chelsea going into half-time with a 2-0 lead, thanks to goals from Marc Cucurella and Cole Palmer, Sanchez’s performance was called into question.
Sanchez had a tough time during the match, with Leicester having several chances in the first half. Some of these opportunities came as a result of Sanchez’s nervousness in possession, with opposition players constantly charging down on him and attempting to block his passes back into his own goal. Hasselbaink expressed his disappointment in Sanchez’s performance, stating that he appeared nervous and took too much time on the ball, putting himself in trouble.
Sanchez’s lack of playing time was also highlighted by Hasselbaink, who mentioned that he had not played regularly and seemed to be taking unnecessary risks. Despite acknowledging the goalkeeper’s injury and desire to prove himself, Hasselbaink stated that Sanchez was not showing that he was better than the alternative options at the moment.
Sanchez started the season as Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper after signing from Brighton for £20 million. However, he has struggled to keep clean sheets, managing only three in his first 16 Premier League games. Following a bad injury in October, Sanchez has played just twice, with Dorde Petrovic performing well in his absence.
During the second half of the FA Cup quarter-final, Sanchez was involved in conceding Leicester’s first goal. He was caught way off his line and couldn’t get back to save Axel Disasi’s bizarre own goal. This further highlighted the concerns about Sanchez’s decision-making and positioning.
Fellow pundit Dion Dublin also criticized Sanchez, emphasizing the need for him to clear the ball when he is slow with his feet and uncomfortable. Dublin pointed out that Sanchez appeared to want to claim the ball on a few occasions when there was no danger, advising him to stay on his line instead.
Sanchez’s performance in the FA Cup quarter-final has raised questions about his suitability as Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper. With Petrovic performing well in his absence, it remains to be seen if Sanchez will be able to regain his place in the team.
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