Fernando Torres in, Daniel Sturridge out: Chelsea's Lineup Just Got Competitive

Fernando Torres is in. Daniel Sturridge is out (for the season). In a British club record, Chelsea made a £50 transfer for the Spanish striker while loaning the young Sturridge to Bolton Wanderers.

So, what could Chelsea possibly be thinking? They are letting a young talent spend more time outside of the club while inviting in a notable prima donna inside. Do they really need that type of help in their quest for a Premiership repeat? In short, yes.

Chelsea needed to make a major move. The club simply isn't performing like it did last year, and it needed a move to show that they weren't out of the race yet. Still, the timing may not have been the best. Two weeks ago, this move may be regarded as great, but after two straight wins, is this advisable? Again, I think it's a good move for three reasons.

First, it gives the team more depth and experience at the striker position. While Torres will probably play on the wing alongside Drogba, he will give Ancelotti the choice between Torres, Anelka, Malouda to start with the odd man out coming off the bench with Kalou. No other team in the Premiership can boast such a strong top five at the striker/forward position. Depending on the matchup, any of these players could play meaningful minutes, and now, the team should never have tired legs up top.

Second, this move sends a message to the top three that Chelsea haven't given up on the season quite yet. Despite being 10 points back of United, Chelsea honestly believe they can make up the ground and defend their crown. It may be ambitious, but it is possible. United have played well all season, but they have obvious issues (poor road form, inconsistency, dependence on Berbatov), which could come into play down the stretch. Arsenal and Manchester City are unproven, and their inexperience in such situations could come into play. By adding another experienced player, Chelsea can make a serious run at the title, and the other top teams know it.

Finally, this decision is a great move for the future. In March, Anelka and Drogba turn 32 and 33, respectively. Malouda is already 30, but Torres and Kalou are 26 and 25, respectively. By getting younger now, the squad will prepare to remain competitive in the future. They loaned Sturridge to Bolton, which is a very smart move. He should be able to get playing time for the Wanderers, which helps the Blues for the future. By transferring him to another team in the EPL, he will be able to play against the best competition in the world. If he were to be loaned to a smaller club, he probably wouldn't gain as much valuable experience as he will for Bolton. Ancelotti knew his team wasn't getting any younger; accordingly, he made a move that would allow his team to actually get younger.

By no means does this move guarantee anything for the Blues. They are playing well, but they need to continue that good run of form for the next four months. If Chelsea can do that, the top three better watch out because an experienced, talented club is gunning for them. If not, well, then, uh...the ladies should enjoy watching Chelsea matches more, right?