Gianfranco Zola tells talkSPORT there is ‘no doubt’ Petr Cech can still perform for Chelsea after being named in Premier League squad

Gianfranco Zola is certain Petr Cech will still be able to perform at the highest level after the retired goalkeeper was named in Chelsea's Premier League squad.

It was thought to be a mistake when Cech's name appeared on Chelsea's squad list on Wednesday evening, but the Blues later confirmed the retired glovesman's inclusion was correct.

2

Despite quitting playing last year and currently serving as Chelsea's technical and performance adviser, Cech is providing emergency cover to Frank Lampard with three other goalkeepers - Edouard Mendy, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Willy Caballero - also named in the west Londoners' squad.

"Petr Cech has been included in the squad as emergency goalkeeper cover," read a club statement. "This is a precautionary step due to the unprecedented conditions currently caused by the COVID-19 crisis. He takes up a position as a non-contract player."

Few expect Cech to pull on the gloves this season, but such an outcome can never be ruled out given Chelsea's ongoing goalkeeping issues.

But if the 38-year-old is forced to take to the pitch once again, there is 'no doubt' he will be able to perform according to Blues legend and former assistant coach Gianfranco Zola.

“I’m totally surprised by that," Zola told talkSPORT Breakfast about the surprise decision. "At 38 he is, especially for a goalkeeper, at an age where nowadays it is quite normal.

“Petr has got unbelievable ability and experience, but I don’t know the condition of his body right now to be honest.

“But with his experience and ability as a goalkeeper there is no doubt he can do it.”

Cech's inclusion in the squad has cast further doubt on Kepa's role at Stamford Bridge after his latest error-prone performance last weekend.

Lampard confirmed Mendy is Chelsea's current No.1 after Tuesday's draw with Sevilla, and it appears Kepa has no future in west London.

And Zola, who was Chelsea's assistant manager when Kepa was signed in the summer of 2018, is stunned by the keeper's continually poor performances.

2

“I’m very surprised," added Zola. "I know he is very young and he came to Chelsea for big money and that is a big burden to carry on your shoulders, and in a way this is probably affecting him.

“I could understand a little bit of difficulty, but this is going beyond what was expected and it surprised me.

“And I am sorry for the boy because he is a good boy and a good goalkeeper.

“He has to pick himself up and do what he can do and show people he is different, because I believe he has got potential.”