Maurizio Sarri remains under pressure at Chelsea and could be replaced by Watford manager Javi Gracia, whose tenure in charge of the Hornets has impressed Stamford Bridges bosses. Sarri appeared to ease the pressure surrounding his future thanks to a string of improved results and the introduction of more youth players into his starting XI. However, defeat against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday saw the side’s top-four hopes take a blow and he could be back in the firing line if Chelsea fails to qualify for the Champions League.
The Blues will drop out of the top four if Arsenal beat Watford on Monday night, though that is not the only reason Chelsea bosses will be watching the game with interest. According to the Daily Record, Chelsea’s decision-makers have been hugely impressed by the job Gracia has done at Vicarage Road, with the team on course for a seventh-place finish and already in the final of the FA Cup.
As well as results on the pitch, Chelsea
Gracia is one of three names on Chelsea’s shortlist, with Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo and former Chelsea captain – now Derby County manager – Frank Lampard also in contention.
Watford