Chelsea flop now features prominently in Pochettino’s plans

Chelsea will be hoping to build on their strong run of form when they travel to face Newcastle United on Saturday afternoon. 

The Blues have endured an inconsistent start to Mauricio Pochettino’s tenure at Stamford Bridge, but followed up a 4-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur with a 4-4 draw against Premier League leaders Manchester City prior to the international break.

Pochettino will therefore be hoping to see his side produce another impressive display, against a Magpies side that are likely to be missing several key players due to injury.

One player that could feature at St James’ Park is full-back Marc Cucurella, and it appears that the defender has impressed his manager of late.

The Spaniard’s recent form has impressed Pochettino and he now features heavily in the former Tottenham manager’s plans, according to Football Insider.

Cucurella appears to have turned his Chelsea career around in recent weeks

Cucurella, 25, joined the Blues from Brighton and Hove Albion last summer after spending just a single season at The Amex.

The left-back, who can also operate on the right of defence, struggled during his debut season at Stamford Bridge.

He made a total of 33 appearances across all competitions last term, but was criticised for a number of unconvincing performances.

This season, though, the former Seagulls man has impressed and featured regularly for Pochettino’s side.

He has made nine appearances so far this term, including six consecutive Premier League games.

Cucurella, who cost Chelsea a reported fee of £60 million last summer, was said to be close to leaving the club during the recent summer transfer window.

Several clubs were said to hold an interest in the defender, but he ultimately stayed put in West London and now appears to have turned his Chelsea career around.

The Spain international has flourished in the absence of vice-captain Ben Chilwell, who has missed much of the season so far through injury.