By SABC Sport
6th December 2024
Sitting above Arsenal on goal difference and ahead of Manchester City, Chelsea's recent form has been impressive, remaining unbeaten in their last six matches.
A dominant 3-0 win over Southampton on Wednesday further solidified their position as a team to watch.
Despite a narrow 2-1 loss to Liverpool earlier in the season at Anfield, Chelsea's young and evolving squad has shown resilience and competitiveness.
Madueke, who has scored six goals and earned a place in the England national team, has been a key figure in their rise.
He himself has expressed confidence, stating that Chelsea are "up for it" and ready to challenge Liverpool for the title.
"Of course we are up for it," said Madueke, when asked about the title race.
"[But] whether we are in it or not is a different question. However, we are taking every game as it comes. We are trying to progress and trying to get better. We are focusing on ourselves, really, and really trying to improve.
"We won 5-1 [at Southampton] and in the dressing room we are very happy with that, but we also know that we can be a lot better. It's really focusing on us, focusing on training and trying to improve."
Manager Enzo Maresca has overseen a positive shift in Chelsea's performance, with the team moving in the right direction despite early doubts at the start of the season.
However, the Blues boss also insists they are not title contenders.
"We're not in the title race," said Maresca. "We are not, in my opinion."
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