Mauricio Pochettino is relishing the prospect of improving the young players in Chelsea’s squad this season and the head coach is certain it won’t be long before they gel as a strong collective unit.

The Blues have already shown plenty of promise in the opening two fixtures of the season, especially in the draw against Liverpool at Stamford Bridge. Even at West Ham we dominated, but moments of naivety cost us the chance of leaving east London with the points.

Pochettino acknowledges managing difficult spells during games, particularly away from home, is a vital facet of Premier League football and something the younger members of the group will need to learn quickly. But he has no doubt they will do just that.


‘I really believe in the squad and the quality of the squad,’ said Pochettino.

‘Now it’s only the process. We are in a good way. If we had four or six points it would help, but we need to be positive. It’s the beginning, we are going to win games. There’s no doubt the quality is there, it’s only a matter of time.

‘There have been many positive things. We need to give them time to perform, but we have good balance. Even the younger players have experience, like Enzo. He’s a World Cup champion.


‘Of course the Premier League is different, but then it’s about how we are capable of organising the team and creating a team that plays really well.

‘The priority is to play well, but then you have to compete. That’s another football. Set-pieces etc. In that football you need some experienced players, but we have good balance. It’s only about improving this, and for sure we are going to do that.’

Conor Gallagher is one of those young players with plenty of experience behind him. The 23-year-old recently brought up a century of Premier League games and he has impressed since Pochettino’s arrival. The head coach likes what he sees.


‘He’s doing well,’ Pochettino said.

‘He’s a really important player, with his commitment, and the way he is involved every day and in training. We are so happy with him.’