The Curious Case of Courtois’ Red Cards
Thibaut Courtois’ second red card of the season against Manchester City sparked debates: is the Chelsea goalkeeper unusually prone to dismissals? Jeetwin analyzes the data, revealing Courtois has joined an exclusive—and unenviable—club. Only six goalkeepers in Premier League history have been sent off twice in a single season, including legends like Neville Southall (1992/93) and Jussi Jaaskelainen (2001/02).
While Courtois’ two reds this season are his only Premier League dismissals, he’s far from the all-time leader. Pavel Srnicek and Jaaskelainen top the list with four reds each. For context, even elite shot-stoppers like Pepe Reina share Courtois’ current tally.
Chelsea’s Historic Points Collapse: A Title Hangover?
Chelsea’s 3-0 loss to Manchester City highlighted their staggering 33-point drop from last season’s title-winning campaign. If the Blues fail to win their remaining fixtures, they’ll surpass Ipswich Town’s record 30-point decline in 2001/02.
Chelsea’s struggles this season contrast sharply with their 2022/23 dominance.
Historical parallels exist: Leeds United’s 31-point drop after the 1992 title and Chelsea’s own post-1955 slump. As Jeetwin tactical expert Mark Thompson notes, “Title defenses often expose squad depth issues—Chelsea’s lack of midfield dynamism and defensive frailty are textbook symptoms.”
Penalty Dramas: Berahino’s Misses & Norwich’s Woes
Berahino’s Double Penalty Heartbreak
West Brom’s Saido Berahino joined a rare group by missing two penalties in one game against Watford. Only four players have achieved this dubious feat, including Darren Bent (who missed two but scored one in a triple attempt).
Heurelho Gomes’ heroics denied Berahino twice.
Norwich’s Spot-Kick Struggles
Norwich City’s nine conceded penalties this season edge them closer to Blackburn’s record (11 in 2006/07). Andre Wisdom’s foul on Fabio Borini against Sunderland typified their defensive lapses.
Jeetwin Verdict: Records Under Threat
From Courtois’ discipline to Chelsea’s collapse and Norwich’s penalty woes, this season is rewriting Premier League narratives. Will Chelsea avoid the worst-ever points drop? Can Norwich survive despite their spot-kick struggles? Share your thoughts with Jeetwin—the home of cutting-edge football analysis.
