Well there’s a surprise Poch signs for the Blues

Mauricio Pochettino Picture: Chelsea FC

By Paul Lagan

The football world is reeling in shock that Mauricio Pochettino has signed on at Stamford Bridge as head coach.

The Argentine, 51, had the unenviable task of turning round the fortunes of the SW6 outfit that saw them slide into Premier League mediocrity and finish 12th, their lowest finish since 1996.

The ex-Southampton, Spurs and most recently PSG boss will inherit a bloated dysfunctional squad that he will have to quickly slice in half .

A keen Spurs watcher told me recently that 'Poch' will put his arms round the squad, embrace them as if they were long-lost family - and then demand they earn their right to stay in the family.

Pre-season will be vital for any success next season.

So many high earners will be shifted out of Stamford Bridge to accommodate a new striker midfielder and goalkeeper.

Poch will be the new owners of Chelsea fourth manager in less than a year.

Even by by Roman Abramovich standards, that is extraordinary.

He has two seasons and a possibility of an added third to steering the juggernaut around.