Kepa Faces Fight To Save Chelsea Career News

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Kepa Faces Fight To Save Chelsea Career

By Daily Sports on January 26, 2020

Kepa Arrizabalaga is under scrutiny as his poor statistics become public knowledge but Chelsea have long been aware of their No. 1's shortcomings.

Of the 116 goalkeepers to have played at least five games in any of Europe's 'Big Five' leagues this season, the £71 million signing from Athletic Club ranks 109th in terms of save percentage, while he also has the fewest 'expected goals' [xG] prevented in the Premier League.

Kepa was criticised in some quarters for conceding twice from the two shots he faced in Tuesday's 2-2 draw with 10-man Arsenal but it would be harsh to blame him for either goal.

Nonetheless, his kicking was wayward throughout and repeatedly put his own team under pressure during another unconvincing display.

Consequently, Chelsea intend to look at other goalkeeping options during the summer if Kepa can't arrest his worrying dip in form.

Frank Lampard stopped short of admitting that Kepa's position is under threat but he did concede he wasn't entirely happy with the

Spain international's distribution against Arsenal.

"I know there's a focus on him at the minute. That's top-line football," the Blues manager said.

"Yes, with his feet, a couple of times today he took too long and he nearly gave it away. That can sometimes change the momentum of a game. He knows that himself and he has to look at that. And we have to look at that too..."

Lampard elaborated on the theme on Friday. “I am not looking at strengthening that position now but Kepa knows that there have been some mistakes and is honest about that," he said.

'Now' was very much the operative word in that sentence. Chelsea certainly didn't envisage having to even contemplate looking for a new No. 1 when they made Kepa the most expensive goalkeeper in the world in the summer of 2018.

The 25-year-old was considered one of the top shot-stoppers in La Liga when he was signed to replace Thibaut Courtois. (Goal)

•PHOTO: Kepa Arrizabalaga

Source Daily Sports

Posted January 26, 2020