Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has opened up on his causes for taking part in captain Reece James at left-back throughout Sunday’s 2-1 win over Newcastle United at Stamford Bridge.
The Englishman has performed at right-back, proper wing-back and whilst an emergency centre-back for Chelsea, however has not often been utilised on the left by any of his earlier managers. However in opposition to Newcastle in his second begin since recovering from damage, James was requested to play there as Malo Gusto took over duties on the fitting.
The swap paid off for Maresca as targets from Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer rendered Alexander Isak’s first half strike insignificant, with the previous Leicester Metropolis boss explaining after the sport that Chelsea had focused that aspect to assault – Palmer additionally lined up on that flank fairly than enjoying centrally or off the fitting wing as he so usually has.
“I believe it labored high,” Maresca stated of his tactical tweak. “We tried to do one thing totally different. We moved Reece within the left aspect and we additionally tried, for the primary time this season, Cole within the left pocket.
“It was his first recreation [there] and the rationale was for us to attempt to assault on that aspect. And likewise to have Malo in the fitting pocket. I believe it labored very nicely.”
Maresca had publicly revealed previous to the sport that James wanted to indicate higher management inside Chelsea’s dressing room, suggesting that the 24-year-old “must make an effort” to be able to turn into a greater skipper.
“I spoke with Reece many occasions, even when he was injured firstly of the season,” Maresca continued in his post-match press convention. “I actually love and I actually like Reece. The one factor I used to be saying the opposite day and I repeat once more is that from the captains, I count on extra.
“You’re a captain for a motive and you must present it day-after-day. Contained in the pitch, Reece is a high participant.”
Victory on Sunday continued Chelsea’s spectacular begin to the brand new season. The Blues sit fifth within the Premier League after profitable 5 of their opening 9 video games, whereas they’re making good progress within the Convention League after thumping Greek giants Panathinaikos 4-1 on Thursday evening.
