Chelsea's Title Chances: Abramovich Should Go Christmas Shopping

Roman Abramovich is in for an expensive Christmas. Gold-plated iPods for the kids, a small country for himself, oh, and a midfielder and a striker for Carlo Ancelotti.

The unconvincing win over Portsmouth last night confirmed the lack of depth at the top end of the pitch for the Blues.

Salomon Kalou is a bit of a cult figure; he seems like a nice guy, so it’s hard to get on his back. But he is not good enough.

Kalou did nothing to influence the game last night, leaving Anelka to do the running, and the midfield behind him to become increasingly frustrated by Kalou’s poor running and inability to hold the ball up.

Some credit to the Ivorian, he was far too lightweight when he first arrived in England. He realised that and worked on building up his strength.

This did see an improvement in his hold up play, but with no goals in nine games this season, the stats don’t look good.

Yes, he is back-up to Drogba and Anelka, but Kalou doesn’t bring a presence or a sense that he can change a game he plays. This needs to be rectified and is why Chelsea needs to bring in a front man in January.

There are a few options out there; Sergio Aguero at Athletico Madrid is a constant target, and the young Argentine at Chelsea is an exciting prospect.

Another target could be Alexandre Pato at Milan. The Brazilian has become the leading light at the San Siro, and could be the spark Chelsea need in the absence of Drogba at the African Cup of Nations or through injury. The third option is David Villa, who needs no introduction given his scoring record over the last three years.

The fact that two of these strikers would be cup tied for the Champions League knockout stages is not too big an issue. By the time it returns, Drogba will be back from international duty, as will Mikel and Essien.

Which brings me onto the midfield. Ancelotti has a reputation for sending out teams of players in their twilight years, but this won’t stick at Stamford Bridge, where the league is far more competitive and demanding than Italy.

The likes of Deco and Ballack are running out of games for Chelsea, and the next generation needs to be found, whether this be the traditional Chelsea way (spend) or by blooding the likes of Kakuta and Stoch.

Either way, investments should be made, with Franck Ribery top of the wanted list.

The openness of the Premier League this season means the second half of the season is going to be hard going, especially with the defence of the FA Cup to come and the return of the Champions League.

The need for additions is further emphasised by the fact that the Chelsea squad contains only 19 what you would call ‘regulars’, not a great number for fighting on three fronts after Christmas; and the loss of Drogba, Essien, Kalou, and Mikel for up to six weeks.

So, make your manager's Christmas Mr. Abramovich, and stick a nice David Villa shaped present up the tree. He might just repay you with some silverware come May.