Paul Merson has cast doubt on Chelsea’s chances of securing a top-four finish this season, predicting that the Blues will struggle in the final stretch of the campaign.

Despite their recent resurgence, Merson believes Chelsea’s tough run of fixtures could derail their push for Champions League qualification. Speaking to Sky Sports, the Arsenal legend outlined the challenges facing Enzo Maresca’s side.

“There’s a lot of teams in there. I still think Fulham are in there and Aston Villa, they’ve just got to get a run together.”

Merson pointed out that Chelsea briefly moved up to seventh after their win against Southampton but suggested their position is precarious.

“Chelsea were seventh in midweek. They beat Southampton and Forest failed to beat Arsenal.”

Looking ahead, he highlighted how quickly things could change in the table depending on upcoming results.

“Forest have got Man City next week and Chelsea have got Leicester at home. If Chelsea beat them and Forest fail to win, then Chelsea are above them with 10 games to go. But then Chelsea’s games get difficult.”

With tricky fixtures against Arsenal (A), Tottenham (H), Fulham (A), Liverpool (H), Newcastle (A), and a crucial final-day clash against Nottingham Forest (A), Merson believes Chelsea’s path to the top four won’t be straightforward.

“I think there will be a shock. I don’t think it will be plain sailing.”

While Chelsea fans remain hopeful of a late push, Merson’s prediction suggests they could fall short of a Champions League return for the third consecutive season.