Former Super Eagles midfielder John Obi Mikel has criticised Chelsea for failing to strengthen in two key areas during the January transfer window.
The Blues started this season impressively under new manager Enzo Maresca, losing only twice in the Premier League heading into the Christmas period.
However, Chelsea have managed just three wins from their last nine matches in all competitions.
The West London club now sit fourth in the table, 13 points adrift of leaders Liverpool.
This concerning drop-off led to calls from the fanbase for reinforcements in the winter market.
Two positions were identified as needing upgrades – goalkeeper and striker.
Robert Sánchez is joint-top among goalkeepers for the most mistakes leading to goals this season, while in attack, Nicolas Jackson has suffered a worrying decline in form, failing to hit the target in his last eight games in all competitions.
Speaking on his podcast, Mikel Obi said: “For me, that’s something we’re crying out for. We need another top striker.
“The window is shut, unfortunately, and now we can’t bring anyone in. We didn’t bring in a striker, we didn’t bring in a goalkeeper.
“That’s another window shut without us making the signings we think are going to help us finish in the top four.”
