MICHAEL OWEN says Chelsea are likely to give any European side a run for their money in the Champions League next season.
Antonio Conte's side dominated the Premier League this campaign, finishing seven points clear at the top of the table.
And former Liverpool star Owen reckons that'll put them in good stead as they prepare for a run at Europe's toughest clubs.
“We’ve [Premier League teams] not made an impact for a while but I think that is about to change next season, absolutely. Especially with Chelsea," he said.
"They will take on anyone toe to toe in terms of quality and I can’t imagine anyone stuffing them."
Despite the Prem's poor showing in the Champions League this season, with only Leicester managing to reach the quarter-finals, Owen sees the rest of the English top flight upping their game next time around.
“With all due respect, the last group of teams we had, you could pick holes in them all," he added.
“Leicester were playing at that level for the first time and they did remarkably well and only lost to Atletico Madrid. Spurs were playing games at Wembley, and in a different stadium it’s never easy – as they discovered.
“Arsenal had a tough season and got a stinking draw, then Manchester City and Pep Guardiola were trying to introduce a new way of playing. So no-one did that well.
“Next season, hopefully Spurs will be getting used to it at Wembley and put in good performances. Manchester United will be massively strong , and so will City. And who goes to Anfield and has it easy with Liverpool ?
“I would be a bit distraught if we don’t get at least one club to the final. I think it will be a our strongest representation in years and I will be amazed if we don’t have two semi-finalists.”
Comments
Post a Comment