Just one chaos‑free day at work, is that too much to ask? For Mauricio Pochettino the answer, it seems, is a resounding “yes”. Around the corner Chelsea go, taking a turn that looks from the outside to be the right one. Then, inexplicably, they double back.
It appeared, as Bramall Lane began to empty, that a largely tepid performance would at least bring the result Pochettino required against Sheffield United. Then Chelsea stuttered. Again. Even having led twice against a side relegated in all but ceremony. Even having – courtesy of Noni Madueke’s second-half strike – been within two stoppage‑time minutes of three points. So close, and yet absolutely miles away.
