Thursday 16 April 2015 18:40, UK
Matt Le Tissier believes that with Jose Mourinho at the helm, Chelsea will not let the title slip from their grasp, even if they were to lose against Manchester United in the Saturday Night Football.
Chelsea go into the clash with in-form United seven points clear at the top of the table, and could extend that gap to ten with victory over the Red Devils.
Despite sitting in such a lofty position, Jose Mourinho would love to take a step closer to the title with three points against United after some titanic tussles in years gone by.
However, even if the 20-time top flight champions do make it seven league wins in a row at Stamford Bridge, Le Tissier believes Mourinho has too much drive to let their rivals in.
“Even if United can produce a win I still think it will be nailed on for Chelsea to be honest,” Le Tissier said.
“The gap is too big with so few games remaining. When you’ve got someone like Jose Mourinho as your manager you don’t let it slip, he’s got far too much experience and know-how to see the season through.
“I just can’t imagine Chelsea leaving the door open for somebody with the gap there would still be and with so few games to go.”
Goals may be hard to come by for the Blues with Diego Costa set for an extended spell on the sidelines, and Le Tissier admits his loss will be a hindrance.
“Costa’s absence really is quite a big blow,” Le Tissier added.
“Remy is the one for me who is more likely to get you a goal these days. He’s not always that effective starting but has got some important goals, including the one against Hull.
“Drogba was incredible in his prime at Chelsea but he is nowhere near his peak.
“I suspect Mourinho might start with Drogba though and back him to raise his game, which could put the frighteners on United with his physical presence.
"He’s still got the occasional game in him that will scare defenders but I don’t think he can do it week-in-week-out anymore.”
United’s recent resurgence has seen them come out of nowhere to become late-season title contenders.
Le Tissier insists that the much maligned David Moyes deserves some credit as it is his signings that have instigated the turnaround at Old Trafford
“United have plenty of attacking options and it’s ironic that Mata and Felleni, both David Moyes’ signings, are the ones getting all the headlines.
“Van Persie and Falcao not featuring has allowed Rooney to get back up front and in his best position.”
