A gritty FA Cup semifinal triumph over rivals Leeds United proved to be no more than a false dawn for Chelsea , who are slumping dramatically to close out a bitterly disappointing 2025–26 campaign. Champions League soccer is almost entirely off the table for last season‘s Conference League winners. A run of six straight Premier League defeats leaves them ninth with just three games remaining. Perhaps a break from continental action will serve them well next season, even if BlueCo require UEFA’s generous prize money to keep the sinking ship afloat. Stamford Bridge has veered to antipathy, and those traveling to Anfield this weekend will doubtless make their feelings towards the owners known. Chelsea could yet worm their way into Europe’s premier club competition, but there’s a sense that the Blues are merely playing for pride on Merseyside. McFarlane Hopeful of Injury Returns Chelsea could have two wingers back available for Saturday’s game.…