If you just scored the winning goal for your team after they gave up an early lead, what would you say if you were asked about how the match went? Not to mention that the goal was a beautiful half-volley from the top of the box with your supposedly “weaker” foot. Well if your name is Branislav Ivanovic then you talk about how much you need to improve.
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Ivanovic spoke to the club’s official website after the match and he was not thrilled with how he played. The Serbian defender said, “It was an important goal for the team, a great half-volley and I’m happy with the goal, but not so happy with my performance and I know what I have to do better”.
Well were not sure how much better one can play after making such an important contribution to your team but we will leave that up to Branislav. He was the target of much criticism earlier in the season from disgruntled fans who thought he was too buccaneering in his offensive approach.
These same fans noticed an alarming trend that much of the goals scored against Chelsea FC were coming down the Blues’ right flank. The blame was spread between Ivanovic and Gary Cahill but many believed that it was Ivanovic who was at fault. They felt that if Ivanovic showed more positional discipline then Cahill would not be left so exposed and that he would not be giving up so many goals.
This attitude of always looking to make forward runs is what makes Ivanovic such a dangerous player. He is constantly on the move and looking to add width to the Chelsea attack and does so very well. His crossing could use some work but that has never been a big part of his game.
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Instead he looks to come inside and link up with the attacking players. Some of Chelsea’s best goals this season have come courtesy of Branna including the absolute peach against Burnley in the season opener. What he lacks in crossing ability, Ivanovic makes up for it with excellent instincts and finishing ability.
Branislav Ivanovic may be a defender by trade but he has all the attributes of a great goalscorer. He is brave, confident, and technically sound enough to make the most difficult goals look easy. The Blues and Jose Mourinho are lucky to have such a talented player at their disposal and we are lucky to get to watch him play week in and week out.