How can Chelsea use both Reece James and Malo Gusto?
By Abdul Abdullahi
Many people are forgetting how versatile James is: he played in midfield during his loan spell at Wigan Athletic in the 2018/19 season. During his first senior season, James made 45 appearances for the Latics and was named Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year, won Goal of the Season, and was PFA Community Champion. During a great term, he garnered the admiration of the faithful.
The England international also had a fair share of minutes at center back, most specially, right center back, in a back three/five. Here are some options Chelsea Head Coach, Graham Potter, can include both, James and Gusto in the lineup:
Reece James DM/#6-Malo Gusto RB
If Graham Potter continues the current 4-2-3-1 shape, we could possible see James in the midfield pivot and give Gusto the right back keys. ‘RJ’ is comfortable on the ball and rock solid in defence. He can also play in deep crosses if needed and can still play one-two’s with Gusto going on the overlap.
Reece James RCB-Malo Gusto RWB
In the summer of 2022, former Chelsea head coach, Thomas Tuchel has primarily played a three at the back formation where Reece has, time to time, filled in the right center-half slot. With Malo Gusto coming in, will we see the come back of the three/five at the back system? Only time will tell if Gusto is to occupy the RWB spot.