Bridge: 'There is a definite leadership problem at Chelsea'

Bridge said: ''I think there is definitely a leadership problem, 100 per cent. I look at Chelsea now and I don't see a lot of leaders. I think it's something they need to address if they are going to compete for titles.''

''They need to spend money and look to bring in those types of players. Not just good-quality players, but players who have got a bit of character, players who can lead the team through difficult moments.''

''You don't just want one player leading the team. A major part of being successful is having a group of players who can provide leadership.'' 

The ex-defender also touched on manager Antonio Conte's likely departure: ''He came in and did really well last year and everyone wants long-term stability, but I've said for a while that I didn't think he would be there next season.''

''I look at the signings the club made. When Conte has talked about them, he has never been that positive, which suggests he didn't sign them himself. From the outside, it looks like there have been issues there.'' 

"It's difficult for clubs. When you've got a team that's doing really well and all of a sudden you have a dip, sometimes you can leave it too late to make a change, a bit like Southampton nearly did with Mauricio Pellegrino.''

''I'm glad I don't have to make those decisions. A long-term manager is a better option than a short-term one, but you've got to get the right man."

Bridge called on Chelsea to redeem themselves after a disappointing fifth-place finish in the Premier League, as they face Manchester United in the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday. 

He added: ''Conte will want to go out with a bang if he is going. They have been inconsistent all season, but they do seem to bounce back after a few poor performances. Hopefully they can produce a result.''