Premier League: Confident that Chelsea can get the best out of Raheem Sterling, says Mauricio Pochettino

By India Today Sports Desk: New manager Mauricio Pochettino has said that Chelsea are confident that they can get the best out of forward Raheem Sterling. Chelsea kicked-off their pre-season campaign with a 5-0 win over Wrexham AFC.

Speaking after the match, Pochettino said Sterling is an important player for Chelsea, adding that they can get the best out of him. Sterling played 21 matches, with an additional five as a substitute last season.

“I think he’s an important player for us. He’s in our plan. He can provide to the team many different things. We are confident that we can get the best from him to help the team to achieve what we want,” said Pochettino.

Sterling made 13 shots on target from a total of 22 shots, scoring six goals last season. His expected goal (xG) data was 6.51, indicating his efficiency in converting opportunities into goals. Sterling also demonstrated his playmaking abilities by providing three assists. His pass completion rate stood at 79%, with an average of 23 passes per match.

Despite his aggressive style of play, Sterling maintained discipline on the field, receiving only four yellow cards and no red cards. His average player rating for the season was 6.83, reflecting his consistent performance.

Sterling’s dribbling skills were also noteworthy. He attempted 7.57 dribbles per 90 minutes, with a success rate of nearly 70%. This statistic places him among the top forwards in the league. Sterling’s contribution to Chelsea extends beyond his individual statistics. He is a key player in the team’s strategy, often creating opportunities for his teammates.

The pre-season kicked off on July 20, with a match against Wrexham at Kenan Stadium, Chapel Hill. This will be followed by games against Brighton, Newcastle, Fulham, and Borussia Dortmund. These matches serve as crucial preparation for the upcoming season, allowing the team to fine-tune their strategies and build cohesion.