Former Liverpool and England defender Glen Johnson has made a surprise prediction when asked who will challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title next season.
Speaking to Betfred, Johnson said that he believes Chelsea will be the surprise package, despite finishing 12th in the Premier League last season.
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"Chelsea have a fantastic squad," Johnson said. "They weren't firing on all cylinders last season, but now they have a good manager and a good squad, I believe they'll have a point to prove and they'll be challenging more than anybody expected."
Johnson's prediction has been met with some skepticism from fans, who point to Chelsea's poor form last season and the fact that they will not be competing in European football next season.
However, Johnson is confident that Chelsea can challenge for the title.
"I don't believe they'll be good enough to take Manchester City all the way," Johnson said. "But I do believe Chelsea will be their closest rivals."
Johnson's prediction will be put to the test when the Premier League season kicks off in August.
Pochettino's Tottenham Past Could Be an Issue
Johnson also spoke about whether Chelsea's new manager, Mauricio Pochettino, could be a problem because of his past at Tottenham Hotspur.
"He's the Chelsea manager now and as long as he gets this team performing, then the fans are going to forget about his history with Tottenham," Johnson said. "If it doesn't go well, then the Tottenham connection could make some of the fans get on his back quite quickly."
Johnson believes that the Chelsea fans will be patient with Pochettino, as long as he can get the team winning.
"At the end of the day, they're all football fans and they're going to understand that Mauricio needs time," Johnson said. "I believe Chelsea fans will be happy with Mauricio if there's improvement this upcoming season."
It remains to be seen whether Chelsea can challenge Manchester City for the Premier League title next season. However, Johnson's prediction has certainly added an interesting element to the upcoming campaign.
