PETR CECH PRAISES SENEGAL’S MENDY AHEAD OF FUTURE CHALLENGE

Former Chelsea first choice goalkeeper Petr Cech has stated he followed Edouard Mendy, the new sign on and current first choice goaltender for the Blues for about three years before his recommendation for his signing.

Mendy who has been superb at his first chance opportunity at Chelsea, grabbed the No 1 position, displacing Kepa Arrizabalaga to the bench after his £20million deal from Rennes.

And Cech who won the Champions League with Chelsea before moving to Arsenal in 2015 revealed that he has monitored Mendy’s talents a long while and even when he was with Arsenal.

“We had to make sure it was someone everyone agreed on, not just me. It had to be the club, and especially the manager, who had to be comfortable with the choice. We had a list of goalkeepers. We presented it all to Frank Lampard. We talked with the scouts. We shared information. We gave the pros and cons of each goalkeeper. He told Telefoot Chaine.

Peter Cech who was also a former goalkeeper at Rennes before moving to Chelsea where he won 13 major honours, strongly believes Mendy will improve better considering his work rate.

“In the end, my knowledge of Edouard for the past three years helped. I think he’s a goalkeeper who can still improve, with his work, professionalism and desire to be better every day. I’m convinced he’ll improve more, and these aren’t the best performances you’ll see from Edouard Mendy” Cech further stated and assured.

Mendy who has kept five clean sheets in six matches at Chelsea was delighted and humbled that he has been watched by Cech before his departure from France to join the English club.

“Yes, I have been aware that Petr Cech has been watching my matches for a number of years,” the Senegal international, said.

Mendy added “It is very pleasing to hear that he been watching me and saying that he liked my profile and the way I was performing.

“So after the season with Rennes, the offer came in from Chelsea and it is very proud moment for me to join this club.

The Senegal international is expected to continue his superb performances in the Champions League matches despite anticipatory competition from reserve goalkeeper, Kepa Arrizabalaga who will be itching to return to the No.1 position at Chelsea.