Villas-Boas set to delay Mata debut

Fri, 26 Aug 13:22:37 2011

Manager Andre Villas-Boas has warned Chelsea fans they may have to wait until after the international break to see Juan Mata in action for the club.

Wednesday night saw the Blues complete the signing of World Cup winner Mata, who is expected to add some much-needed creativity to their midfield.

Villas-Boas has revealed the 23-year-old, for whom Chelsea reportedly paid Valencia around £24million, is unlikely to start their Barclays Premier League game against Norwich, although he could well be on the bench.

"This league is very, very specific in terms of intensity, emotionally and culturally," Villas-Boas said. "It doesn't mean he's not threatening the starting XI, but two training sessions is short for a player creating new relationships with the players.

"Friday is a decisive day in terms of the strategic part of our game, so that's when we'll decide."

 

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  1. Up AVB - great strategist! I've good to introduce­ him slowly so he blends in calmly without all the­ pressure like that on Torres

    From Rosh, on Sat 27 Aug 17:45

  2. He should be a sub, watch how the game goes then come­ on when needed. norwich will be a nice entry for mata

    From rhys.drakeley, on Sat 27 Aug 17:07

  3. Start Oriol and Lukaku. Get them some minutes!

    From DOC, on Sat 27 Aug 0:32

  4. mata are international player...he know how to manage a­ relationships with our player...please let mata show­ their creativity...he can create a goal...if ur luv­ chelsea,we really luv our club...CHELSEA

    From NURUL ANWAR, on Sat 27 Aug 0:15

  5. cmon avb let mata play

    From max.arnold99, on Fri 26 Aug 23:12

  6. mata is given he number 10 shirt let him play avb

    From max.arnold99, on Fri 26 Aug 23:10

  7. and how about romelu lukaku AVB

    From John, on Fri 26 Aug 23:07

  8. The game will determine whether he will be sub in or­ not

    From Chiedozie, on Fri 26 Aug 21:34

  9. avb should show us love by lettin hom play

    From Anthony, on Fri 26 Aug 21:01

  10. avb should show us love by lettin hom play
    avb should­ show us love by lettin hom play

    From Anthony, on Fri 26 Aug 21:00
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