David Luiz shines as Chelsea close on Premier League title
Diego Costa, N’Golo Kante & Eden Hazard receive most of the plaudits for Chelsea’s title charge. David Luiz, however, has gone under the radar throughout this run of success.
David Luiz has been a key player for a title-chasing Chelsea squad built on defensive resiliency. When Chelsea re-signed him from Paris Saint-Germain on transfer deadline day back in August, many questioned whether the flamboyant Brazilian was the right man to shore up the Blues’ backline.
Luiz’s previous spell in the Premier League had been one of wacky moments and, more often than not, crucial and costly mistakes. Luiz had to prove himself in England again, a challenge he was only too happy to take on.
David Luiz’s performance at Stoke was typical of his season thus far. He was solid, assured and composed with or without possession. Luiz well-matched Stoke’s physical play, led in attack by Jonathan Walters. The 29-year-old made seven interceptions and 10 clearances for the contest – more than his defensive partners Gary Cahill and Cesar Azpilicueta combined.
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Luiz has been a consistent leader for Chelsea’s defence. The common theme from neutrals this campaign has been how N’Golo Kante makes those who play behind him look better than they are. The former Leicester man undoubtedly has been critical to Chelsea’s defensive solidity. But it is unfair and incorrect to assume Luiz has not played his part.
As long-time server John Terry prepares to exit the club this summer, Chelsea have his replacement already on the books. In close contests against Middlesbrough, Liverpool, Manchester City, Crystal Palace and now Stoke, Luiz has been at his best. Whether he’s dealing with crosses into the box or coming across and covering his fellow centre-backs, the once error-prone defender has evolved into a difference maker.
Those who questioned his arrival should have no shame in admitting they were wrong. Few predicted this level of improvement. Once a scapegoat and a comedic target for the British media, some journalists now mention Luiz as a contender for PFA Player of the Year. While unlikely to scoop up the award that seems destined to end up in Kante’s arms, it’s another example of the level of consistency that Luiz has shown in his return.
Playing in a five-man defence is no doubt an easier task than playing as one of four. But Luiz still has to cover a lot of ground. He also usually has the responsibility of being the last defender. This shows the trust from his manager, but it is also a job that seemed unimaginable during his previous Chelsea spell.
Chelsea’s 2-1 win at Stoke last weekend pushed the Blues ever closer to the Premier League title. The wild celebrations which followed Gary Cahill’s 87′ winner pointed to just how important the victory was.
With Manchester City dropping points at home to Liverpool, Tottenham are Chelsea’s only legitimate challengers. How long Spurs can keep up the pace with Antonio Conte’s men remains to be seen. Harry Kane is facing a spell on the sidelines with an ankle injury, weakening their hopes for a desperate surge.
Chelsea certainly look good for their lead as they head into the international break. The most recent slip up came over a month ago at Burnley. A Robbie Brady free kick earned Burnley a point against a sluggish Blues team.
Though they have gone close to dropping points since the Burnley contest, their ever-developing winning mentality has seen them through these struggles. Away wins against Stoke and West Ham put Chelsea back on track. Meanwhile, at home, Swansea visited Stamford Bridge and nearly stole a point. Second half goals from Pedro and Diego Costa cancelled out Fernando Llorente’s equaliser.
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Chelsea head into the final weeks of the season needing just 21 points to claim their second title in three years. They will need their best players to step up and ensure there is no slip-up. David Luiz has continued to show he is a leader for this side. Along with Cahill, Costa & Cesc Fabregas, Luiz can be relied upon to push the Blues towards the finish line. He may even pick up a player of the year award in the process, one which he most certainly deserves.