Into the depths part 3: Chelsea’s wingbacks the drivers of the system
By Travis Tyler
From the academy: Tariq Uwakwe
This is a tricky one because Chelsea’s academy lost, through loan or transfer, nearly all of their wingbacks over the summer. Uwakwe was actually on loan last year but he has failed to find a landing spot (thus far) this summer. If his lot is to remain, it is likely that he will play as a wingback and he will be one of the most experienced in the academy thanks to his loan.
Whether or not he actually gets a chance with the first team is another question. He has been training with them over this international break but breaking through as a wingback will be tricky. Tuchel’s wingbacks truly blur the line between defender and attacker so many more players get looped into the conversation. Uwakwe will have an uphill battle but he stands out as the one on deck, at least at the moment.
On loan: Dujon Sterling
The loan army is full of several fullbacks/wingbacks that all deserve at least an honorable mention, but Sterling stands ahead by virtue of having been such a presence in preseason. Though he often lined up as the right centerback, that role itself is a blend of a traditional fullback and a centerback. By trade, Sterling is more of a wide player and that is where the club likely hope he develops.
Sterling will hope to follow a similar path as Chalobah. Both players have had several loans and Chalobah finally got his chance this summer. For a brief moment, it almost looked as though Sterling would as well but a loan will likely prove the better choice. Sterling was rated all the way back when Antonio Conte was at the club so it would be easy to see Tuchel doing something similar so long as three at the back remains. It’s all up to Sterling doing well this season and getting a shot next season.
Next. Chelsea into the depths pt. 2: Centerbacks solid for now, questions later. dark
What do you think of the depth for the wingbacks? Let us know in the comments and on Twitter!