Ashley Cole makes claim about Willian after Chelsea FC draw
Ashley Cole has his say on Willian's performance for Chelsea FC in their 1-1 draw with Leicester City
Ashley Cole has admitted that Willian looked a little bit “rusty” when he came off the bench in Chelsea FC’s 1-1 draw with Leicester City on Sunday.
The Brazil international came on to play the final 19 minutes of Chelsea FC’s stalemate against Brendan Rodgers’ men at Stamford Bridge but was unable to help Frank Lampard’s side to find a winner in front of their home fans.
Willian missed Chelsea FC’s pre-season preparations due to a knee injury he picked up on international duty with Brazil at the Copa America over the summer and he is now working his way back to full fitness.
And Blues legend Cole feels that the 31-year-old still has some work to do on his fitness levels before he can be considered for a starting spot by Lampard.
Speaking during Sky Sports‘ coverage of the game on Sunday, Cole said: “[Injured players] Antonio Rudiger, Ruben [Loftus-Cheek] will add to this, we’re talking about not having enough goal-scorers… maybe he [Loftus-Cheek] can give something different.
“So, yes, they are missing players. Willian has obviously been away. He looked a little bit rusty today.
“Frank needs all these players sharp now. Yes, it’s only two games in but he’s already getting judged.
“So he’s going to have to be motivating these guys in a different way and say: ‘Hey, you better hurry up and start to get fit because I need you’.”
Chelsea FC are still looking for their first competitive win under Lampard following his appointment as the club’s new manager back in July.
They lost their opening game of the season 4-0 to Manchester United at Old Trafford and were held to a frustrating draw by the Foxes on Sunday.
The Blues are next in action on Saturday lunchtime when they take on Norwich City away from home in the Premier League.
