The Blues’ unprecedented January spending spree saw eight players arrive at Stamford Bridge over the course of a chaotic January, but a new era got off to a limp start last night.
Chelsea fans were greeted to a first glimpse of record signing Enzo Fernandez, while there were also home debuts for Mykhailo Mudryk as well as second half substitutes Noni Madueke and David Datro Fofana.
Excitement and anticipation quickly turned to frustration, however, as Chelsea struggled to create opportunities and Fulham were well worth the point they gained following a goalless draw.
Overall, Todd Boehly and his Clearlake consortium have spent over £600million since their takeover last year but, according to Hoddle, the only player guaranteed to start for Potter is a free signing; the imperious Thiago Silva, who fellow pundit Gary Neville described as ‘sensational’.
Hoddle told Premier League Productions: ‘They’re not quite there. There’s something missing there and it’s difficult for Graham Potter to pick his best team, he doesn’t know his best team by any means.
‘Even going into the transfer window he was still trying to find his system and balance in all departments. I think Thiago Silva is a shoo-in, he’s a must, but everyone else it’s a mishmash.
‘There’s a lot of work to do. He’s got some lovely material to make a beautiful suit but it’s going to take more time with so many new players.’
Hoddle was, however, impressed with the performance of Fernandez who only arrived in London on Thursday and was pitched straight into the heat of Premier League midfield battle.
Elegant on the ball and tough in the tackle, the Argentina World Cup star impressed at the base of Potter’s midfield, but Hoddle feels the 22-year-old would fare even better in a more attacking role.
He added: ‘I thought Fernandez played well he looks as though he’s going to get better and better and will probably play in a more advanced position rather than just a holder.’
MORE : Graham Potter explains decision to axe Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Chelsea’s Champions League squad
MORE : ‘He was sensational!’ – Gary Neville names two positives from Chelsea’s draw with Fulham
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