Chelsea boss backs under-fire keeper Cech

Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti has described Petr Cech as one of the best goalkeepers in the world and expects him to bounce back from his recent jitters.

Ancelotti’s men have looked vulnerable from set-pieces and Cech’s communication with his defenders has been highlighted after the Premier League leaders took just nine points from 18 in December. However, Ancelotti believes errors come from his goalkeeper wanting to take responsibility for his penalty area, which the Italian views as a positive attribute.

“I said Petr Cech is one of the most important players for this team, one of the best goalkeepers in the world.

“I like him because he takes on responsibility in the box, he likes to come out to catch the ball. Above all, that’s important in England, to have this kind of goalkeeper.

“A goalkeeper that takes responsibility can make the odd mistake. I prefer to have a goalkeeper who takes responsibility than one who just stays on his goalline and doesn’t take that responsibility,” Ancelotti said.

Cech could be in goal against Watford in the FA Cup on Sunday as Ancelotti is set to pick a strong side, having been told about the importance of the competition on his arrival at Stamford Bridge.

“I want to put out my best team,” he said. “It’s a very important competition in England. In Italy, the Italian Cup is not so important. We want to do our best. It is one of our objectives, our aim, to win it. Last year we won it. We want to do the best again this year.

“Watford are a good team. I don’t know them very well, but I have an opportunity to watch a DVD. Every team can give you problems. It is important to stay focused and concentrated.”