Chelsea owners reach Enzo Maresca sack verdict after Ipswich draw

Enzo Maresca retains the support of the Chelsea board despite the increasing pressure on the Blues manager's shoulders, a report has revealed.

A bitterly disappointing 2-2 draw with relegation candidates Ipswich Town at the weekend leaves Chelsea facing an uphill battle to qualify for the Champions League next season. They sit sixth in the Premier League standings but need a spot in the top five to return to Europe's premier competition.

Having won just five of their last 16 Premier League games, Chelsea fans are growing increasingly frustrated with the team's performances and those inside Stamford Bridge have made their feelings clear in recent weeks. Maresca even blamed the negativity for the result against Ipswich.

Maresca's commitment to Chelsea is also thought to be unwavering and there is no desire from the Italian's side to entertain a departure.

Chelsea face a tough run of fixtures to conclude the campaign but do still have their Champions League fate in their own hands. Fulham and Everton are next up for the Blues before May begins with a visit from Liverpool, who may be due to receive a guard of honour if they can wrap up the league title before then.

Newcastle United, who currently sit fourth, will host Chelsea the following week and, after the final home game against Manchester United, Maresca will hope to mastermind what could be a crucial win against third-placed Nottingham Forest on the last day of the season.

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