Chelsea: RLC at centreback? Wildcard emergency options at each position
By Varun Dani
2. Centre Back: Ruben Loftus-Cheek (Alternate: Mateo Kovacic)
With exceptional offensive and creative prowess, it is easy to forget that Ruben Loftus-Cheek trained at the academy and started his Chelsea career as a central defensive midfielder. Loftus-Cheek’s traits are better suited in an attacking role beyond any doubt, but nevertheless, he has some experience playing in defensive roles.
Maurizio Sarri last season ensured that Ruben Loftus-Cheek worked on the defensive phase of his game. Only on the basis of this improvement would Loftus-Cheek go on to become a starter for Sarri. His improved defensive adeptness along with his exceptional physicality makes him an ideal emergency option at centre back.
He can match up to imposing strikers aerially and match the pace of the more nimble strikers, making him versatile enough to play well at the position. When needed, Loftus-Cheek could carry the ball up field with ease and piece together plays from the back with great aplomb.
Mateo Kovacic has displayed exceptional ball recovery abilities, and is physically adept enough to be the next best ball-playing emergency centre back.