Those early season thoughts that Chelsea might be the team best placed to challenge Arsenal are beginning to look over-optimistic. The two chaotic wins with which they began the season were always difficult to read: they might have been useful points picked up on the way to a more solid structure, or they might have represented evidence of significant problems. After three games without a win, it’s beginning to look like the latter. Brentford’s first home win over Chelsea since 1938 means they remain unbeaten, third in the table, coherent and disciplined. The comparison is impossible not to draw: as one side flails in an orgy of structured spending, their far less wealthy neighbours thrive with a clear plan and sense of direction. Continue reading...