Liverpool boss Arne Slot believes Chelsea play with a “clear identity” under Calum McFarlane, despite being on their third manager of the season.
McFarlane was installed as interim head coach last month following the sacking of Liam Rosenior, who had replaced Enzo Maresca in January.
The lack of continuity in the dugout has contributed to a disappointing campaign on the pitch for the Blues, who sit ninth in the Premier League table after 35 matches.
Chelsea head to Anfield on Saturday looking to end a six-game losing streak in the league, their worst run since 1993, though they did reach the FA Cup final by beating Leeds United last month.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Slot says he anticipates challenging contest between two teams trying to qualify for Europe.
“If our information is correct then a few of the players that were missing, have come back,” he said. “It will probably be a stronger team than last week. If those players they say are back, are back. That will be massive for them. As it is for any team when you miss out on your best players, that is never helpful.
“But it is always a difficult game for both teams because there is so much quality on both ends. It is a game between a lot of very good individual players, let’s hope we have a very good team performance as well because that usually helps individuals, it will be even better.
Slot explains why Chelsea have ‘clear identity’ under McFarlane
Slot added that McFarlane sets up Chelsea more like Maresca did than his predecessor Rosenior.
The Dutchman said: “All managers have their own idea about football, they’ve had three this season.
“The current manager is a bit closer to what Maresca usually did, so has a very clear identity how he plays so it is clear what to expect. They have a clear identity.”
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