Le Saux urges Chelsea focus

Former Chelsea defender Graeme Le Saux says the London club should be motivated by past glories in Wednesday’s clash with Shakhtar Donetsk.

Chelsea, who surrendered top spot in the English Premier League following a 1-1 draw with Swansea City at the weekend, can move to the top of Group E in the Champions League with a win over Shakhtar.

Roberto Di Matteo’s side are also looking to avenge their 2-1 loss in Ukraine last month.

Chelsea have taken just four points from the opening three games of their title defence, and Le Saux, who played for the club between 1989-1993 and 1997-2003, believes the match at Stamford Bridge is vital if they want to progress to the knockout phase.

“They need to win to make sure they give themselves enough of a buffer to go and play Juventus again in a few weeks time,” Le Saux said.

“It’s a tough competition the Champions League but given the fact Chelsea have won it and they are the holders, that will drive them on.”

Le Saux enjoyed European success during his second spell with Chelsea, featuring in the team that clinched the Cup Winners’ Cup in 1998.

While the Englishman concedes it will be tough for the club to retain their Champions League crown, Le Saux thinks they have learned from their defeat to the Ukrainian champions.

“It proves that the teams you play against in Europe are tough opponents,” he said.

“Shakhtar have some very creative, fit, talented players that are exciting going forward.

“Chelsea need to be on their guard defensively to contain teams. When you see competitions at that level you realise you need to be at the top of your game.”