Premier League icon delivers verdict on Chelsea top-four chances after Tuchel impact

Rio Ferdinand claims Chelsea might miss out on top four

Speaking to BT Sport (h/t Football.london), Rio Ferdinand believes that Thomas Tuchel could fall short with Chelsea in a bid to secure a top-four place in the Premier League.

Although, the Manchester United legend did concede that he wouldn’t be surprised if Chelsea ultimately did secure Champions League football for next season.

Ferdinand was of the opinion that Chelsea have left a little too much to do for themselves in the remaining few months of the season, despite 15 games still to be played.

WOLVERHAMPTON, ENGLAND – JANUARY 04: Rio Ferdinand pitchside for BT Sport television during the FA Cup Third Round match between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Manchester United at Molineux on January 04, 2020 in Wolverhampton, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

“I think there’s a bit too much to do maybe. Leicester are still a fairly consistent team and I think the other teams will just be able to stay ahead of them. I think Tuchel will get it right there, I do like him as a manager. I think the players have taken to him immediately but I think there will be a little bit to do maybe to get in there.”

He also went on to play it safe by saying that if Chelsea do qualify for the Champions League, he would not be surprised. Adding to that, he thought Frank Lampard might be thinking that he could have gotten this side into the top four.

Frank Lampard was sacked by Chelsea in January. (GETTY Images)
Frank Lampard was sacked in January. (GETTY Images)

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Chelsea could well make inroads into the top four starting with their game against Newcastle. They are unbeaten since sacking Lampard and appointing Thomas Tuchel.

However, there does remain the threat of the chasing pack breathing down their neck. Everton, West Ham and Aston Villa are also close behind the Blues and in contention for a top-four finish.