“Might just be the best decision”, “Manager showing bravery” – Chelsea fans salute Maresca for picking surprise player in line-up vs Crystal Palace By Silas Sud

Chelsea supporters have shown their gratitude for Enzo Maresca’s choice to include Josh Acheampong in the starting lineup for the upcoming match against Crystal Palace. The match, scheduled for Saturday, December 4 at Selhurst Park, will see Robert Sanchez in goal for Chelsea, with Malo Gusto, Acheampong, Levi Colwill, and Marc Cucurella forming the defense.

In the midfield, Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, and Jadon Sancho will feature, while Nicolas Jackson is set to play as the sole forward.

Acheampong, an 18-year-old central defender, made his debut for Chelsea last season and had his first full start under Maresca in the UEFA Conference League against Astana on December 12. He recently signed a contract extension that will keep him at the club until June 2029 and has appeared three times this season.

His place in the starting eleven has been well-received by fans, especially given the recent struggles of defenders Benoit Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo, and Axel Disasi.

One supporter commended Maresca for the choice, stating, “Acheampong over Tosin and Disasi might just be the best decision ever,” while another fan admired Maresca’s courage in offering the young player an opportunity.

Other fans expressed their enthusiasm for Acheampong’s inclusion, with comments such as “Josh gets his start, LETS GO!” and “Finally the manager showing bravery. I’d rather lose to an Acheampong mistake than a Disasi one.”

Although there is a positive outlook for Acheampong, the upcoming fixture against Crystal Palace is considered a tough test. Former Liverpool player Mark Lawrenson predicted a 1-1 draw for the match, pointing out Chelsea’s recent struggles after a strong start to the season.

Currently, Chelsea holds fourth place in the Premier League, 10 points behind league leaders Liverpool, while Crystal Palace is in 15th place with 20 points. Lawrenson cautioned that “things unravel quickly at Chelsea” if the team doesn’t manage to regain their form.