Chelsea players were left jubilant at full-time as the Blues secured a place in next season’s Champions League following a win against Nottingham Forest.
Levi Colwill was the hero as the Blues took the lead early in the second half, before an incredible defensive display allowed them to finish 4th, despite the likes of Gary Neville predicting they would miss out.
Every Chelsea player scored highly in The Chelsea Chronicle’s player ratings for the win, and the manager also deserves praise for his team selection throughout the season.
Enzo Maresca dealt with the injured core of Romeo Lavia and Reece James perfectly so they were both able to make an impact on the final day of the season.
The boss has had a close relationship with his captain throughout the campaign, looking to do what he can to get the best out of him.
Enzo Maresca went straight to Chelsea player at full-time of win vs Nottingham Forest
So, when the final whistle was blown it was perhaps no surprise that according to Nizaar Kinsella, Maresca and James celebrated together whilst the players went mental in front of the away fans.
He said: “Chelsea’s entire squad are going wild, celebrating with each other, and then the fans. Enzo Maresca was calmer but had a little dance with Reece James, who is among the calmer Blues players and they are going around the entire Forest squad saying well done.”
James can thank Maresca for a lot this season, and there have been glimpses of the player who was one of the best in the world in his position. He has been described recently as ‘unbelievable’ by Carlton Cole.
Maresca’s relationship with Chelsea fans
Despite the fact that Chelsea have clearly performed better this season than last, fans have not always been on board with the manager.
Even during the opening game of the season, there was discontent at Maresca’s style of play, which hasn’t always been the most attractive on the eye.
However, now he has delivered what Mauricio Pochettino couldn’t, there should be full confidence in the supporters that the team are going in the right direction.
Chelsea are fully backing Maresca, and now the task will be to try and push towards a full season title race with the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal.
