Chelsea's keeper Robert Sanchez is optimistic that his competition with Mike Penders for the starting role will elevate the team's game as they gear up for the upcoming Premier League season.
Last season, the 28-year-old Spanish shot-stopper firmly established himself as the top choice for the Blues, winning the battle against Philip Jorgensen, who has since gone on loan to Strasbourg.
Meanwhile, 21-year-old Mike Penders has returned to Chelsea after a loan spell at Strasbourg and is poised to challenge for the first-choice goalkeeper position.
Sanchez had high praise for his younger colleague:
He's a fantastic young keeper who had a great season at Strasbourg. He’s tall (at 200 cm), commands the box, remains cool under pressure, and is just a great guy. I believe he has the potential to become an exceptional goalkeeper in the future.
Despite his status as the number one, Sanchez is convinced that strong competition is crucial for maintaining peak performance:
You never know what might happen to the first-choice keeper—injuries or dips in form can occur. So, it’s essential to have alternatives to back up the team and push each other to raise the overall standard. If you don't have someone pushing you every day to give your best, you might become complacent, and results can suffer.
I think it's fantastic when one or two individuals encourage you every day.
