With all of the success Chelsea have seen in recent years in the league and Europe, it’s easy to overlook the importance of the FA Cup to their history. Nearly a decade before Roman Abramovich purchased the club, Chelsea won their second and third FA Cups - with former manager Roberto Di Matteo netting in both finals.
In fact, Chelsea have not lost in the FA Cup’s third round since 1998 when they came off on the wrong side of an eight goal thriller against Manchester United. In a classic encounter at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea found themselves 5 goals down with 16 minutes to go, when United’s defence completely switched off. Graeme le Saux started the revival but it was too little too late for the holders.
Since 2003, Chelsea have gone on to win another 4 FA Cups. While other clubs appear to undermine the competition with heavy squad rotation, Chelsea have historically prioritised it, appreciating its significance to English football. It was only fitting then that they began this campaign with captain John Terry returning to the side - starting his 50th FA Cup match for Chelsea. It was his first start for the team since their League Cup defeat at the London Stadium.
Under previous regime’s, Chelsea would have fielded a starting XI which very much resembled their league side. But Antonio Conte has already set himself apart from a number of the team’s previous managers, and like the League Cup campaign opted to give an opportunity to more than John Terry. The Italian made nine changes to the side that lost mid-week to Tottenham. The January transfer window looms large, and Conte will have used Sunday’s game as an opportunity to see any gaps in the squad that still need filled - or who could do with a loan spell away from Stamford Bridge.
Peterborough manager Grant McCann admitted he could have set up his side to sit back, defend deep and try to frustrate Chelsea’s fringe stars. But with no real expectation of a result upon them, he freed his players to maintain a more expansive attacking style. Which resulted in one of the more entertaining fixtures of the round. The Posh managed 12 shots against Chelsea - only 4 teams have managed more against the Blues in the Premier League this season.
As emphatic as the win was, it seemed to leave more questions than answers. Antonio Conte considered his response for an almost uncomfortably long time when asked if he was pleased with the result and what he’d seen from his players. He went on to explain that when you change 9 players, it’s not easy to find your ideal football quickly. I’m pleased for the players. Now it’s important to continue.”
Michy Batshuayi scored Chelsea’s second and set up Pedro’s final goal, but appeared hesitant in celebration. While it could be out of respect to their opposition, it could be concerns over his own future at the club. With papers speculating almost daily whether he will be loaned out, Batshuayi will be frustrated with his lack of opportunities so far. Conte was pleased that in that match, the Belgian appeared to reflect Chelsea’s ‘philosophy’ and style. The manager said that Batshuayi has “showed he’s improving, it’s important for him to continue this way. And give me the opportunity to have another solution in our squad.”
As exciting as the match was, it will largely be remembered for John Terry’s sooner than expected exit. The Chelsea captain saw red after fouling Lee Angol in the 67th minute. It was the second time in his last 6 starts that Terry has been sent off. In fact, he’s responsible for 3 of Chelsea’s last 6 red cards in all competitions. Between injury problems and Conte hesitant to disrupt his defensive lineup, Terry has seen few opportunities this season. He will be desperate for this not to be his final act in a Chelsea shirt.
With Kurt Zouma finally match fit and Nathan Aké’s return, it’s unlikely Terry will feature much more in the league under Conte. However, if Chelsea keep up their impressive form, the captain could find himself lifting his sixth FA Cup trophy — in full kit — before he decides on his future.
