Former Everton, Liverpool and West Ham midfielder Don Hutchison believes Chelsea’s problems under the current ownership stem from a lack of authority and structure, comparing the club’s current situation to the successful era under former owner Roman Abramovich.
Speaking exclusively to BestBettingSites, Hutchison criticised the direction Chelsea have taken under BlueCo and Todd Boehly, claiming the club has become “a circus” since the turn of the year.
Abramovich’s standards still being missed
The former midfielder pointed to comments made by former Chelsea player John Obi Mikel about Abramovich’s demanding standards during his time at Stamford Bridge.
Hutchison explained: “He [John Obi Mikel] said Abramovich used to say, ‘I’ve got so much money; if you don’t sort your stuff out, you can F-off.’
“It’s brilliant from an owner to say, ‘I’ve got so much money – sort your stuff out or F-off.’ It’s like, whoa, yeah – I need to get my “A” into gear here.”
He believes the current ownership has taken the opposite approach by handing players lengthy contracts, reducing the pressure to consistently perform.
“What is Todd Boehly and his men telling the Chelsea players? ‘Right, it’s okay if you don’t sort your stuff out, because here – there’s a seven-year contract.’ It’s the complete role reversal of what Abramovich was doing.”
Hutchison also questioned Chelsea’s managerial decisions in recent years, suggesting the standard of appointments has declined significantly.
Calum McFarlane stepped in as interim manager when Liam Rosenior was dismissed on April 22 after just 106 days in charge.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Arsenal backed for Premier League title as Phil Foden’s Man City future is questioned
Frank Lampard ‘not the right fit’
According to reports, Chelsea are continuing their search for a new manager, with names such as Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva, and Xabi Alonso linked with the role.
Despite speculation surrounding Frank Lampard returning to Stamford Bridge, Hutchison does not believe the Coventry City boss is the right choice at this stage of his managerial career.
“I don’t think Frank [Lampard] will be what Chelsea want,” he said.
“I understand he’s been there twice, and I get the ‘Chelsea legend’ thing, but I think they need someone with real authority because Frank’s still a young manager.”
Hutchison added that Chelsea’s long-term contracts could become a major issue if results continue to disappoint.
“You might see a group of players that have got long contracts but don’t want to be at Chelsea anymore,” he warned, mentioning stars such as Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.
He concluded that an experienced manager is now essential to restore discipline and standards at Stamford Bridge.
READ NEXT: Football analysis: Is specialisation in football refereeing a good idea?
