Chelsea players' stance on Mauricio Pochettino sacking - report | OneFootball

The Blues could finish the campaign in a Europa League spot or still drop into the bottom half for a second-straight year, and they were most recently humiliated 5-0 by rivals Arsenal.

Leandro Trossard, Ben White, and former Blue Kai Havertz were all on the scoresheet in for the Gunners this week, the result lifting Mikel Arteta's men to the top of the table while condemning Pochettino's to ninth ahead of the weekend's clashes.

Though pressure is growing on Pochettino, the 52-year-old remains highly esteemed by the majority of the dressing room, with the Standard reporting players eager for some stability following two years of continual change and disruption.

Moreover, the Blues squad - young in its making - has acknowledged that Pochettino has shielded them from criticism, particularly after some horrendous displays, and actively cultivated team spirit among a diverse group of players from various countries.

It's also worth noting that skipper Reece James and vice-captain Ben Chilwell have been unable to deliver as much influence and support as they or Pochettino had hoped for due to injury.

Some board members believe Pochettino deserves to retain his position heading into next season as they recognise the challenges he has faced and commend his efforts in navigating through tough circumstances.

The Argentine signed a two-year contract with Chelsea last summer which included an option of a further 12 months.