Roberto Di Matteo Brings Back Squad Harmony To Chelsea Blue

Roberto Di Matteo has been another inspired decision by Roman Abramovich. The perceptive Italian has managed to solve the old and new divide within the Chelsea squad. There is finally a distinct feeling of squad harmony not seen since the happy times of Mourinho. Winning matches usually helps, but more importantly, man management is the key.

While Chelsea try to revitalize their playing squad this season, the old guards of Frankie Lampard, Drogba and Terry have stubbornly refused to concede their starting places to the young stars-in-the-making. Conversely, the young stars of Mata, Torres and Sturridge have found their performance on the field stifled by the legends.

Against Spurs in the FA Cup semifinal, it was apparent that Chelsea old and new have begun to develop a symbiotic relationship within the team. Frank Lampard commented that Di Matteo should be credited favourably for that.

Under Di Matteo, Chelsea is playing more like a team. Players are working for each other instead of finding cliques on the pitch. There is a willingness now to get results. RDM have reverted to Ancelotti's midfield diamond but with Juan Mata at the head. With players in familiar roles, results have started to flow as have confidence.

Four of the goals that Chelsea scored against Spurs perfectly highlight the confidence flowing through the team and the improved team work.

The Veterans' Act

At the 41st minute, Lampard went route one. His long ball found Drogba who controlled it deftly, turned round Gallas and blasted a shot past Cudicini. Frank and Didier reprise the familiar tandem that has been so successful over the years.

Young and Old Working Together

On the 49th minute, Lampard takes a Chelsea corner. David Luiz flicks onto goal. Terry flies through the air and missed, but the ball falls to the lurking Mata who scores a controversial goal. A great example of Chelsea legends combining well with the future of Chelsea.

Chelsea's fifth goal was all about Mata and Florent Malouda combining. Another perfect lob for the onrushing Frenchman to slot the ball past the unfortunate Cudicini.

The Future

The third goal came in the 77th minute. This time, Juan Mata flighted a ball to Ramires who scored easily. The understanding that has developed will make Chelsea even stronger next season, regardless who comes in as manager.

Chelsea's stock is on the up. From being a crisis club, the Blues is now a team on form. Another final beckons but this time a more formidable opponent awaits. Get past the mighty Barcelona and Abramovich should hire Di Matteo permanently - at least for next season.