Planet Swans ArchivesJohn Hollins believes that the Swans could cause an upset at Stamford Bridge this afternoon
The former Swansea City manager told the Evening Post “This match is far from being a foregone conclusion
“There is a very big gap between the Championship and the Premier League, but Chelsea are toiling a bit at the moment.
“They have a new manager and new players, and it is taking a little time for them to gel.”
Hollins senses an opportunity for Swansea to confound expectations at Stamford Bridge, particularly so if the visitors sustain the style of play which has become such a signature of Brendan Rodgers’s side.
“I have watched Swansea on television and they are playing very confidently with the ball,” says Hollins.
“There has been no change in style.
“There are still strong elements of Roberto Martinez’s style, and Brendan Rodgers has done very well to get them into the Premier League.”
More than simply keeping possession in a pretty manner, however, Hollins is urging Swansea to attack and make the most of what has been a largely underwhelming Chelsea team of late.
“What I want to see is for Swansea to come and play,” he says.
“Teams go to Stamford Bridge and sit, and you will not win like that.
“You have got to have a threat, and you must attack.
“I would encourage Swansea to attack because they have the capability to do it.
“David Luiz has become quite a crowd favourite in central defence,” he says.
“But if Luiz pushes forward from the back, Swansea might be able to catch Chelsea on the break.
“You need pace in this league, and Scott Sinclair is a very quick player.
“Sinclair can cause Jose Bosingwa problems at right-back.
“Bosingwa cannot give any fouls away, because Sinclair will be a threat from free-kicks.
“Swansea are not a particularly big side,” Hollins says.
“I do feel that, defensively, corners could prove to be a problem for them.
“Chelsea are a physical side and they could be a threat at corners, with guys like Alex and John Terry going forward.
“Even if Swansea can contain Chelsea, they will have to be wary of the danger from set-pieces.
“Some of the players have still not found the right tempo this season,” says Hollins.
“I think Frank Lampard is still struggling for form after his injury.
“He does not look like the player he was.
“He is a bit like a battery at 50 per cent, and he needs a little more game time.
“And it is taking a little time for the new manager to settle in as well,” Hollins adds.
“Andre Villas-Boas is very active, up and down and shouting.
“I think he has been a little fortunate, as most have results have come because of late goals. The situation is quite tender at the moment.
“If Swansea can quieten the supporters as they did against Arsenal, that will be a big factor,” says Hollins.
“The support will be magnificent from the Swansea fans.
“They will sing Chelsea to death.
“I remember managing Swansea when we played West Ham in the FA Cup, and the Swansea fans were singing and singing.
“The West Ham fans were certainly not blowing any bubbles that day.”
Hollins clearly has fond memories of his time in South Wales and, even though Swansea are competing against a team with which he so closely identifies, the Chelsea icon admits he will have mixed feelings this afternoon.
“I will be torn,” he says. “Swansea have done so well to get where they are.
“I just want to see a good game of football, and for both teams to have a real go.
“May the best team win.”
