Mata: Chelsea can turn it around

Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata says that former club Chelsea are still title contenders, despite the reigning champions slipping off the pace early on.

Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata says that former club Chelsea are still title contenders, despite the reigning champions slipping off the pace early on.

The 27-year-old knows Chelsea well after two-and-a-half seasons at Stamford Bridge, and is surprised by their current league position of 16th.

The Blues already trail Premier League leaders Manchester City by 10 points after four defeats and only two wins this campaign, but the Spanish playmaker is quick to point out that a long season still lies ahead.

"Chelsea are in an unusual situation," he told Onda Cero. "It is somewhat circumstantial and I do not think it will go on for an extended period of time. They do not have a squad that should have them in that position in the Premier League.

"We have seen the gap of 10 points arrive in two months and I think Chelsea will come out of that situation quickly. In fact, I do not rule them out of the title fight."

Mata's United side return to Premier League action against Everton next Saturday, when Chelsea will be lining up against Aston Villa.