Zola Confident Cech Can Still Impress For Chelsea
Gianfranco Zola says he is surprised Petr Cech has been included in Chelsea’s Premier League squad but is confident the 38-year-old can still produce the goods if called upon.
Cech called time on his playing career after playing in the 2019 Europa League final for Arsenal and the former Czech Republic international has since taken over as Chelsea’s technical and performance adviser.
Cech was a surprise inclusion in Frank Lampard’s 25-man squad on Tuesday as he joined as an emergency cover for Edouard Mendy, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Willy Caballero.
“I’m totally surprised by that,” Chelsea great Zola told talkSPORT of Lampard adding Cech to his ranks.
“At 38 he is, especially for a goalkeeper, at an age where nowadays it is quite normal.
“Petr has got unbelievable ability and experience, but I don’t know the condition of his body right now to be honest.
“But with his experience and ability as a goalkeeper there is no doubt he can do it.”
Zola was assistant manager to Maurizio Sarri when Kepa was signed for a world record £71m in the summer of 2018.
With the Spaniard having lost his position as Chelsea’s number one goalkeeper, Zola is surprised Kepa has not lived up to expectations.
“I’m very surprised,” Zola added on Kepa’s form issues.
“I know he is very young and he came to Chelsea for big money and that is a big burden to carry on your shoulders, and in a way this is probably affecting him.
“I could understand a little bit of difficulty, but this is going beyond what was expected and it surprised me. And I am sorry for the boy because he is a good boy and a good goalkeeper.
“He has to pick himself up and do what he can do and show people he is different, because I believe he has got potential.”
