ENZO MARESCA is safe as Chelsea boss – for now.
The club’s Italian head coach retains the confidence of the club’s board despite a worrying downturn in form.
Sunday’s dismal 2-2 draw against struggling Ipswich leaves them sixth in the Premier League and out of the Champions League reckoning for next season.
Chelsea’s entire gameplan revolves around returning to the money-spinning European competition as quickly as possible.
Maresca’s team was booed off at half time and needed an own goal and one from on-loan Jadon Sancho to grab a point against relegation-bound Town.
But Maresca’s dedication to his job and unflinching commitment to the cause mean the Stamford Bridge top brass remain convinced he is still the right man for the job.
He has been in charge for less than a season since leaving Leicester City having won last season’s Championship title.
Maresca, 45, is the fourth permanent manager to serve under Chelsea’s ownership since they took over less than three years ago.
Yet there is no desire for another change of coach even though results have taken a tumble.
A Blues insider told SunSport: “Everyone at the club is totally on board and committed to getting us back in the Champions League.
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“Enzo, the board and the sporting directors are wedded to that ideal.
“If it doesn’t happen this season there will be questions asked naturally. But as it stands Enzo is still seen as the man to take Chelsea forwards.”
Chelsea have drawn their last two Premier League games dropping four points.
They sit a point outside the top five which would qualify them for the Champions League after a two season absence.
There are only six games left in which to make up lost ground although they do play direct rivals Newcastle and Nottingham Forest during the run-in.
It’s a tough challenge and winger Sancho has called for unity in the closing weeks of a topsy turvy campaign, even though Chelsea face a tough trip to neighbours Fulham on Sunday.
Chelsea ratings vs Ipswich
JADON SANCHO spared Chelsea’s blushes as Enzo Maresca’s side came from behind to draw against Ipswich.
The relegation-threatened Tractor Boys went 2-0 up after 31 minutes with Chelsea flat throughout the first half.
But Maresca’s men woke up after the break and fought back for what will still be a disappointing point as they chase a Champions League spot.
So who were the shining lights for the Blues – and who had an afternoon to forget?
Sancho said: “We really want that Champions League spot.
“It’s not over, we’ve still got six games to go. From now on every game is going to have to be a final, so we’re going to need everyone at 100 per cent.
“We have tough games ahead but if we stick together I’m sure we can get what we need from them.”
Maresca complained that the ‘environment’ at Stamford Bridge is not helping his players in their quest to get back among Europe’s elite clubs.
Chelsea’s demanding fans are restless and are not happy that even though the team is up against it domestically they are flying in the UEFA Conference League this season.
Maresca said: “We are stronger with our fans. We are a better team and it’s up to them to decide the way to be.”
