Chelsea goalkeeper Sanchez reveals why Blues are in good position to win Premier League

Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez believes the Blues have a genuine opportunity to challenge for the Premier League title this season, with the absence of European football giving the squad more time to focus on domestic matters.

The Spanish goalkeeper is also encouraged by the approach of new manager Xabi Alonso, who he believes has brought calmness and clarity to the squad.

Chelsea will have fewer fixtures to navigate this season after missing out on European competition, and Sanchez believes that could become a major advantage in their Premier League campaign.

The goalkeeper pointed to the benefits of having a regular weekly schedule, allowing the squad to recover properly and focus fully on each league fixture.

"I think this year is a positive," Sanchez said. "It can be a good thing that we do not have a European tournament, because we can focus on the league. It is good for us as a team and as a squad because we get that time, one game a week, and I have a feeling we can do great things this year."

Chelsea's reduced fixture schedule could allow Alonso to spend more time working with his players on the training ground as he attempts to implement his tactical ideas.

Sanchez admitted that the squad is still adapting to the new manager, but believes progress is being made.

"We have a new manager, and we are still trying to understand his game plan, what he wants from us," he explained. The most important thing is everyone is getting minutes and putting in a good effort. The boys have done that."

Sanchez has also been encouraged by the relationship he is developing with Alonso.

The Chelsea goalkeeper believes the new manager understands the strengths of his players and is giving them the freedom to perform at their best.

"He is allowing me to perform. I know what he wants me to do. He understands the strengths of every individual. He understands my strengths. He is going to allow me to do what I am best at this season," Sanchez said.

The goalkeeper also praised Alonso's calm personality, saying it has already had a positive impact on the squad.

"He has brought a different attitude, a lot of calm, into the squad. He is a really calm person. He brings that as a player because he used to play. I like his idea of football."

With Chelsea able to concentrate on the Premier League and Alonso gradually implementing his ideas, Sanchez believes the Blues have plenty of reasons to be optimistic.