European absence can make Chelsea a threat - Rooney
· Yahoo Sports
Chelsea's failure to qualify for Europe will help them become "a real threat" in the Premier League next season, says former Manchester United and England striker Wayne Rooney.
A 2-1 defeat at Sunderland on Sunday brought down the curtain on a disappointing season for the Blues, who have sacked Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior along the way.
Visit sportbet.rodeo for more information.
Chelsea, who started the day above Sunderland in eighth, slipped to 10th, to also finish a point and two spots behind Brighton, who qualified for the Conference League.
It is only the third time since 1995-96 that Chelsea have ended a top-flight season in 10th place or lower.
However, they notably recovered to win the title in 2016-17 having been in exactly the same position at the conclusion of the previous season.
With Xabi Alonso taking the reins in July as their new manager, Rooney believes Chelsea will become a major force.
"I think they'll be a real threat next season," Rooney said on the Wayne Rooney Podcast.
"Obviously having one game a week, and then with Alonso coming in, I think it's exciting for the Premier League because I think he's got the potential to be a top manager.
"It gives him a period of time to feel his way into the club and get his ideas across. So I think it will benefit the football club."