EPL: Pochettino defends Caicedo after nightmare debut for Chelsea

Mauricio Pochettino has risen to defend Moises Caicedo, after the £115 million signing gave away a penalty in a nightmare first outing for Chelsea.

The defensive midfielder played for about 30 minutes in the match against West Ham today, August 20, after finally completing a long-awaited move to Stamford Bridge, becoming the most expensive player in Premier League history in the process.

The Ecuador international midfielder who signed an eight-year contract with Chelsea, replaced Ben Chilwell on 61 minutes.

With Chelsea 2-1 down and West Ham down to 10 men, the Blues were searching for a late equaliser when Caicedo clumsily brought down Emerson inside the box. The penalty was converted by Brazilian footballer, Paqueta, giving West Ham their first win of the season.

Commenting on the Ecuador international’s performance, Pochettino said he will be hoping Caicedo does not dwell on an underwhelming debut.

He said;

“It was a very negative impact to the team. We played well in the first half and then it was difficult in the second half, we didn’t find the right way to play and we did change the shape.

“We were rushing the decisions and pushing decisions to make chances and that happens as the team is new – I am sure we will start winning games.

“He was telling us he was ready, I think 30 minutes is good for him, many positive things and he is maybe disappointed but we need to move on and he will be a good player for us.

“I cannot change my speech after Liverpool we needed to believe in the process and we need to keep being clam and that is the process.”

 Caicedo will hope to bounce back from a disappointing debut when Chelsea host newly promoted Luton Town at Stamford Bridge on Friday. Fellow new midfield signing Romeo Lavia could also feature.